Question

A 72-year-old woman presents within 90 minutes of right-sided weakness and aphasia. CT shows no bleed; BP is 190/112 mm Hg. What is the best next step?

Accepted Answer

Begin IV nicardipine and target SBP <140 prior to alteplase

Answer

Give IV alteplase immediately

Answer

Delay therapy until BP normalizes spontaneously

Answer

Start aspirin 325 mg and admit

Answer

Lower BP to <185/110 mm Hg, then administer IV alteplase

Practice question

A 72-year-old woman presents within 90 minutes of right-sided weakness and aphasia. CT shows no bleed; BP is 190/112 mm Hg. What is the best next step?