Answers: Learning Scenario 1

      a. He may have high blood pressure, but further readings are needed to see if this is the case

CORRECT. Mr Shah is asymptomatic so urgent referral to the GP is not required. However, ABPM or HBPM would be needed to confirm the diagnosis. 

      b. He has high blood pressure and needs to see his GP immediately

INCORRECT. He may have hypertension, but a one-off clinic reading does not confirm the diagnosis and he does not meet the criteria for urgent/same-day referral. 

      c. His blood pressure is a bit high, but it is nothing to worry about. You advise him that he should try to lose some weight and stop smoking 

INCORRECT. Although these lifestyle interventions would be beneficial to both his blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health, he may have high blood pressure and further checks should be done either through the community pharmacy or by referral to the GP. 

      d. His blood pressure is a bit high, but it is nothing to worry about and no further checks are needed

INCORRECT. He may have high blood pressure and further checks should be done either through the community pharmacy or by referral to the GP.