Cardiovascular System Practice Exam Related

Review Cardiovascular System Practice Exam related questions and content

The nurse is giving nitroglycerin sublingually for chest pain. What is the most important instruction to give to the client?

  • A. Place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve completely.
  • B. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
  • C. Chew the tablet and then swallow it.
  • D. Take one tablet every 5 minutes until pain is relieved.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve completely. Nitroglycerin is absorbed quickly through the oral mucosa, providing rapid relief for chest pain. Placing it under the tongue allows for direct absorption into the bloodstream. Swallowing the tablet whole (B) would delay absorption. Chewing the tablet (C) would cause rapid absorption and possibly lead to a drop in blood pressure. Taking one tablet every 5 minutes (D) is not recommended as it can lead to hypotension. Therefore, option A is the most appropriate instruction for the client.