In a congregant with severe hypertension (198/108) and a persistent headache, what is the priority nursing action?

• A. Call 911 so the paramedics can evaluate the client
• B. Sit with the client in a quiet area and wait for the paramedics to arrive
• C. Take another blood pressure reading in 5 minutes
• D. Administer an antihypertensive medication from home

Answer: (A)

When severe blood pressure is paired with a persistent headache, it can signal a hypertensive emergency that threatens end-organ function. The immediate priority is to obtain urgent professional evaluation and treatment, so the safest and fastest path is to call emergency medical services. EMS can begin assessment and monitoring right away and transport the person to an emergency department where IV antihypertensive therapy and a workup for potential complications (like stroke, heart attack, or kidney injury) can be started without delay. Delaying care by waiting, trying to take another reading, or giving home medications without medical orders can allow the situation to worsen and miss critical interventions.