Intravenous Antihypertensives within Cardiovascular-Based Continuity of Care

The use of intravenous (i.v.) antihypertensives in the treatment of cardiovascular-related hypertensive emergencies crosses distinct areas of clinical care and therapeutic applications. From first contact with emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, through the entire course of patient evaluation and care to medication considerations at the time of discharge, the applications for the i.v. antihypertensives are multiple and varied. This article describes the frequently encountered cardiovascular-related conditions found in their respective clinical settings and the utility of various antihypertensive treatment options.