History of Present Illness:

A woman in her late 50’s with a history of ESRD and CAD on Plavix and 81mg aspirin presents to the ED with 1 hour of global HA, vomiting and weakness in the left leg and arm

Vital Signs & Physical Exam:

Vitals normal except BP of 188/122.  Strength on left side arm and leg was 4/5.  Right sided strength was normal.  No facial weakness

Initial Diagnostic Testing:

What is the treatment for this?

  • A) TPA
  • B) Platelets and keep SBP <140
  • C) Dialysis and keep SBP <160
  • D) DDAVP and surgery

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What is the treatment for this?

  • A) TPA
  • B) Platelets and keep SBP <140 – CORRECT – This was recommendation from neurosurgery.  (platelets because on Plavix/aspirin)
  • C) Dialysis and keep SBP <160 – Nephrology recommended against emergent dialysis due to bleed
  • D) DDAVP and surgery

1-Minute EM Consult on the topic for this case – click here

 

CASE CONCLUSION: Neurosurgery was contacted and recommended keeping SBP <140 and giving platelets to reverse Plavix.  Admitted to ICU.  Bleed did not progress.