What post operative medication could be the cause of the hypertensive crisis in the described scenario?

The medication associated with the risk of causing a hypertensive crisis, particularly in the context of post-operative care, is Demerol (meperidine). Demerol can lead to increased blood pressure due to its interaction with certain neurochemical systems in the body.

Specifically, Demerol has the potential to induce a release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that can increase blood pressure. Additionally, if a patient has taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or has certain dietary restrictions previously, Demerol could exacerbate these effects, leading to a hypertensive crisis.

Other opioids listed, such as Dilaudid (hydromorphone), Morphine, and Fentanyl, while they carry their own risks and side effects, are not typically associated with this particular reaction. They have different metabolic pathways and effects on the central nervous system, thereby making them less likely to contribute to hypertensive crises in the same way as Demerol does. Understanding these distinctions is key for safe post-operative management and preventing complications.