Question

A 58-year-old with aortic dissection risk (tearing chest pain, mediastinal widening). First-line medical therapy while awaiting CT?

Accepted Answer

Beta-blocker (e.g., esmolol) to HR <60 then vasodilator if needed

Answer

IV nitroprusside alone

Answer

Aspirin and heparin

Answer

Thrombolysis

Answer

No therapy until CT confirms

Practice question

A 58-year-old with aortic dissection risk (tearing chest pain, mediastinal widening). First-line medical therapy while awaiting CT?