5th April 2024

A 50-year-old hairdresser is admitted as an emergency to A&E after being found collapsed on the street

A 50-year-old hairdresser is admitted as an emergency to A&E after being found collapsed on the street. On initial assessment, her GCS is 9 (E3, M4,V2). She is maintaining her own airway. Initial observations include a respiratory rate of 26, SpO2 88% on room air, BP 220/136 mmHg, HR 138 bpm and temperature of 37.2 C.

While initial assessments are being carried out, a colleague has pulled up her medical records. She was diagnosed with a phaeochromocytoma six months ago but did not attend follow-up appointments and staff were not able to contact her. What is the first line management step for this patient?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.