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Severe hypertension referral — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCardiovascular TherapeuticsSevere hypertension referralGPhC CRA

A 63-year-old man asks for a BP check after a severe headache and blurred vision. Two seated readings are 214/126mmHg and 210/124mmHg. He has type 2 diabetes, takes no antihypertensive medicine and reports new shortness of breath when lying flat. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: C — Refer for same-day emergency assessment

Very high BP with symptoms such as visual disturbance, headache and possible heart failure symptoms raises concern about accelerated hypertension or hypertensive emergency. Community pharmacy management should not delay urgent assessment. Home monitoring and routine review would be inappropriate. OTC analgesia or aspirin does not address the potential acute target-organ damage.

Reference: NICE CKS Hypertension; BNF