A 58-year-old man presents to the emergency department 2 hours after developing sudden-onset right-sided weakness and aphasia. His NIHSS score is 12. Non-contrast head CT shows no evidence of hemorrhage. His blood pressure is 160/90 mmHg. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?
✓ Correct Answer: Option A
For acute ischemic stroke presenting within 4.5 hours and without contraindications (like hemorrhage or uncontrolled hypertension <185/110 mmHg), intravenous alteplase is the first-line treatment to achieve reperfusion.