A 48-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a severe headache, blurred vision, and altered mental status. His blood pressure is 220/130 mmHg. Funduscopic examination reveals papilledema and hemorrhages. An ECG shows left ventricular hypertrophy. Which of the following is the most appropriate immediate management?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
This is a hypertensive emergency with end-organ damage (papilledema, altered mental status). Blood pressure should be lowered by no more than 10-20% in the first hour using IV agents (e.g., labetalol, nicardipine) to prevent hypoperfusion and further organ damage.