What should a physical therapist do if a patient on a tilt table at 60 degrees shows signs of orthostatic hypotension?

In managing orthostatic hypotension, the primary concern is to ensure the patient's safety and restore hemodynamic stability. When a patient exhibits signs of this condition, such as dizziness or faintness, it signifies a significant drop in blood pressure commonly associated with a change in position.

Lowering the tilt table completely is the most appropriate response because it rapidly brings the patient back to a horizontal position, which helps in alleviating the symptoms by facilitating blood flow back to the heart and increasing cerebral perfusion. This immediate action minimizes the risk of the patient fainting or falling, which could lead to further complications such as injuries.

While gradually lowering the tilt table is also an option, reducing the angle moderately may still keep the patient at risk for experiencing orthostatic hypotension symptoms if the angle reduction is insufficient. Therefore, completely lowering the table ensures that the patient is in a safe position while monitoring vital signs for any further intervention if necessary.