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A patient with a history of angina pectoris is prescribed nitroglycerin sublingual tablets for chest pain relief. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the patient regarding nitroglycerin administration?

  • A. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
  • B. Chew the tablet before swallowing.
  • C. Place the tablet under the tongue until it dissolves.
  • D. Apply the tablet to the skin over the chest area.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets are meant to be dissolved under the tongue to allow for rapid absorption into the bloodstream. Placing the tablet under the tongue helps to bypass the first-pass metabolism in the liver, leading to a quicker onset of action and chest pain relief. Chewing, swallowing, or applying the tablet to the skin will result in decreased effectiveness or delayed onset of action. Therefore, it is important for the patient to be instructed to place the nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve for optimal therapeutic benefit.