ASSESSMENTS
Initial
Early triage is critical in an effort to assure the most timely and appropriate therapy for each patient.4 A brief but thorough history should address the duration as well as the severity of hypertension, all current medications, including prescription and nonprescription drugs, and the use of recreational drugs. A history of other co morbid conditions and prior cardiovascular or renal disease is critical to the initial evaluation.
Direct questioning regarding the level of compliance with current antihypertensive medications may establish inadequacy of therapy. Frequent or continuous monitoring of blood pressure should be established. Look for historical information regarding neurologic, cardiovascular, and/or renal symptoms and look for specific manifestations, such as headache, seizures, chest pain, dyspnea, and edema.