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Hypertensive emergency — RCPSC IM MCQ

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ModerateCardiologyHypertensive emergencyRCPSC IM

A 58-year-old man presents with severe headache and chest discomfort. Blood pressure is 232/126 mm Hg, creatinine has risen to 180 umol/L from baseline 90, urinalysis shows hematuria, and funduscopy reveals papilledema. CT head shows no hemorrhage. What is the most appropriate management?

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Correct answer: B — Admit for intravenous antihypertensive therapy with controlled blood pressure reduction

Severe hypertension with acute target-organ damage involving kidney and retina is hypertensive emergency. Treatment requires monitored intravenous therapy and gradual controlled reduction to avoid ischemic complications.

Reference: Hypertension Canada 2025 guideline