Question

A 64-year-old with acute ischemic stroke arrives 2 hours after onset. BP is 200/110 mm Hg. Noncontrast CT is negative for hemorrhage. What is the next best step before thrombolysis?

Accepted Answer

Start nicardipine to reduce BP to ≤185/110 mm Hg and then give alteplase

Answer

Administer aspirin 325 mg then alteplase

Answer

Proceed with alteplase immediately

Answer

Begin heparin infusion

Answer

Delay therapy for 1 hour of observation

Practice question

A 64-year-old with acute ischemic stroke arrives 2 hours after onset. BP is 200/110 mm Hg. Noncontrast CT is negative for hemorrhage. What is the next best step before thrombolysis?