Aliyah is taking the blood pressure reading of a 35-year-old patient in for his checkup. She notes that his blood pressure is 145/90. Looking over the patient’s chart, he does not seem to have a history of high blood pressure. What would likely be Aliyah’s NEXT step? (1 point) Responses Ask the patient if he is experiencing stress or nervousness about the appointment. Ask the patient if he is experiencing stress or nervousness about the appointment. Recommend that the patient begin taking medication for high blood pressure. Recommend that the patient begin taking medication for high blood pressure. Ask the doctor to order an electrocardiograph to measure the patient’s cardiac rhythm. Ask the doctor to order an electrocardiograph to measure the patient’s cardiac rhythm. Call for an ambulance to transport the patient to the hospital for care.

1 answer

The most appropriate next step for Aliyah would be to ask the patient if he is experiencing stress or nervousness about the appointment. This can help determine if the elevated blood pressure reading (145/90) is due to situational factors, known as "white coat syndrome," rather than a chronic condition. It’s important to assess the context of the reading before considering further interventions, such as medication or additional tests.