Question

A 67-year-old with suspected acute aortic dissection presents with tearing chest pain radiating to the back and BP 190/100 mm Hg. What is the immediate pharmacologic priority before definitive imaging?

Accepted Answer

IV beta-blockade to reduce heart rate and shear stress

Answer

IV nitroprusside alone to reduce BP

Answer

Subcutaneous enoxaparin

Answer

High-dose aspirin

Answer

Thrombolysis

Practice question

A 67-year-old with suspected acute aortic dissection presents with tearing chest pain radiating to the back and BP 190/100 mm Hg. What is the immediate pharmacologic priority before definitive imaging?