Final answer:
Oliver should be referred to an eye care specialist to determine the cause of his dry eye disease and to receive appropriate treatment, rather than adjusting his hypertension medication or solely increasing the use of artificial tears.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended next course of action for Oliver, who is experiencing dry eye disease, would be option C) Refer him to an eye care specialist to assess the underlying etiology of his dry eye disease. Since hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic used for treating hypertension) could potentially have dry eyes as a side effect, an eye care specialist is qualified to determine if the medication is the cause or if there is another underlying issue. Additionally, the eye care specialist can provide a comprehensive evaluation and offer a tailored treatment plan, which may include adjustments to his medication regimen if deemed necessary.
Increased use of artificial tears may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause of Oliver's condition. It is also important to note that making changes to a patient's hypertension medication without proper medical advice can be dangerous, hence option A) is inappropriate without consulting a healthcare professional. A primary care provider usually manages overall health but may not have specialized knowledge about eye diseases like an eye specialist does. Therefore, referring Oliver to an eye care specialist is the most prudent and recommended action.