Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

How should a patient with a blood pressure of 160/110 be managed concerning epinephrine administration?

1. Maximum dosage of epinephrine

2. Half dosage of epinephrine

3. No epinephrine; refer to a physician

4. Use alternatives to epinephrine only

The correct answer is: No epinephrine; refer to a physician

In a clinical scenario where a patient presents with a blood pressure of 160/110, it is critical to prioritize patient safety, especially when considering the administration of epinephrine. High blood pressure can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular complications, particularly when vasoconstrictors like epinephrine are used, as they can elevate blood pressure further. As such, managing this patient's care appropriately involves avoiding the use of epinephrine altogether in this context. Instead, the best course of action is to refer the patient to a physician for further evaluation and management. This ensures that any underlying hypertension can be addressed appropriately and that the patient's risk factors are carefully monitored before any dental procedures that may require the use of epinephrine are undertaken. This approach emphasizes the importance of assessing the overall health and stability of the patient, particularly when they present with significant hypertension, to avoid exacerbating their condition. The referral strategy effectively allows for tailored management of their blood pressure prior to any dental treatment that might require epinephrine, aligning with best practices in patient care.