Significant blood pressure elevation. Applies when elevated BP is identified at any point — during pre-infusion vitals, if the patient reports symptoms, or if a recheck is performed. Continuous BP monitoring during standard hydration treatment is not required or standard practice.
Stop the infusion immediately
Place patient in comfortable semi-upright position
Recheck blood pressure after 5 minutes of rest
Ask about headache, visual changes, chest pain, or nausea
If systolic >180 or diastolic >120, call Medical Director immediately
If symptoms present (headache, vision changes), call 911
Keep patient calm — anxiety worsens hypertension
Recheck BP every 5 minutes and document trend
Do not resume infusion until BP normalizes and Medical Director approves