Which statement by a client taking sublingual nitroglycerin indicates effective teaching by the nurse?

Study for the UWorld Pharmacology Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The statement indicating effective teaching by the nurse is the one about taking up to three pills in a 15-minute period if experiencing chest pain. This reflects an understanding of the correct usage of sublingual nitroglycerin.

Sublingual nitroglycerin is used to relieve acute angina attacks. When a person experiences chest pain, the medication can be administered sublingually for rapid absorption and onset of action. The standard protocol allows for the administration of up to three doses, spaced five minutes apart, for a total duration of 15 minutes, as long as chest pain persists. This guideline is critical to ensure that the client can effectively manage their angina while avoiding potential complications from inadequate relief.

The other statements indicate misunderstandings about the medication's safe use, particularly concerning storage, interactions with other medications, and side effects. For example, keeping pills in a plastic bag could expose them to moisture, thereby reducing their effectiveness. Regarding the combination of nitroglycerin with vardenafil, this combination can lead to severe hypotension, requiring close monitoring and guidance from a healthcare provider. As for discontinuing the medication upon experiencing a headache, this side effect is common and does not necessitate cessation of treatment unless it is severe or uncomfortable

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy