Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets begin to work within 1 to 2 minutes. How should the nurse instruct the client to use the drug when chest pain occurs?
A. Take one (1) tablet every two (2) to five (5) minutes until the pain stops.
B. Take one (1) tablet and rest for ten (10) minutes. Call the physician if pain persists after ten (10) minutes.
C. Take one (1) tablet, then an additional tablet every 5 minutes for a total of three (3) tablets. Call the physician if pain persists after three (3) tablets.
D. Take one (1) tablet. If pain persists after five (5) minutes, take two (2) tablets. If pain persists five (5) minutes later, call the physician.
Correct Answer: C. Take one (1) tablet, then an additional tablet every five (5) minutes for a total of three (3) tablets. Call the physician if pain persists after three tablets.
The correct protocol for nitroglycerin used involves immediate administration, with subsequent doses taken at 5-minute intervals as needed, for a total dose of three (3) tablets. Sublingual nitroglycerin appears in the bloodstream within two (2) to three (3) minutes and is metabolized within about 10 minutes.
Option A: They must be instructed to allow the nitroglycerin to dissolve in their mouth and allow their oral mucosa to absorb the drug. There currently are three doses available: 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg, and 0.6 mg. The dose is repeatable every 5 minutes until the achievement of relief.
Option B: If anginal pain persists after three doses, prompt medical attention is required. After administration, the onset of vasodilatory effects occurs within 1 to 3 minutes, with a max effect occurring within 5 minutes. Nitroglycerin is primarily eliminated via metabolism in the liver and has a mean half-life of approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Option D: Nitroglycerin is most commonly administered as a tablet that is absorbed sublingually. It is given in hospitals as well as prescribed for outpatient use. Patients may be prescribed nitroglycerin to take as prophylaxis for anginal chest pain prior to an event that may provoke anginal symptoms.
No comments:
Post a Comment