A nurse in a provider's office is assessing a client who reports dyspnea and fatigue. Physical assessment reveals tachycardia and weak peripheral pulses. The nurse should recognize these findings as manifestations of which of the following conditions?

Swallowing the capsules whole is the correct way to take nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules, as they are designed to release the medication slowly and steadily over time. The client should not crush, chew, or open the capsules, as this can alter the absorption and effectiveness of the medication.

Taking 1 capsule at the onset of anginal pain is not appropriate, as nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules are not meant for acute episodes of angina, but for long-term prevention and management. The client should use a fast-acting form of nitroglycerin, such as sublingual tablets or spray, to relieve anginal pain.

Taking the medication with meals is not necessary, as nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules can be taken with or without food. However, the client should take the medication at regular intervals and around the same time each day.

Stopping taking the medication if side effects are troublesome is not advisable, as nitroglycerin oral, sustained-release capsules can cause withdrawal symptoms and rebound angina if discontinued abruptly. The client should consult with the provider before stopping or changing the dose of the medication. The client should also report any severe or persistent side effects, such as headache, dizziness, hypotension, or tachycardia.

The priority nursing action is to notify the provider of the client's allergy because shellfish allergy may indicate an allergy to iodine, which is commonly used as a contrast dye in cardiac catheterization. This could cause a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis during the procedure, which could be life-threatening. The provider may need to order a different type of contrast dye or premedicate the client with antihistamines or steroids to prevent an allergic reaction.

a. Ask the client if any other foods cause such a reaction is wrong because it is not the priority action and it does not address the potential risk of iodine allergy.

c. Notify the dietary department of the client's allergy is wrong because it is not relevant to the cardiac catheterization and it does not prevent an allergic reaction during the procedure.

d. Atach a wrist band indicating the client's allergy is wrong because it is not sufficient to alert the provider or the catheterization team of the client's allergy and it does not prevent an allergic reaction during the procedure.