A nurse is reviewing the health history for a client who has angina pectoris and a prescription for propranolol hydrochloride PO 40 mg twice daily. Which of the following findings in the history should the nurse report to the provider?

Choice A reason: Taking only one dose of nitroglycerin is not a good advice, as it may not be enough to relieve the angina pain and prevent a myocardial infarction. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator that relaxes the blood vessels and improves the blood flow to the heart. The recommended dose is one tablet or spray under the tongue every 5 minutes for up to three doses, or until the pain is relieved. Taking only one dose may compromise the effectiveness of the medication and the safety of the client.

Choice B reason: Asking the provider to prescribe a different medication is not a necessary action, as nitroglycerin is a first-line treatment for stable angina and has proven benefits for reducing mortality and morbidity. Changing the medication may not be appropriate or feasible, as there may not be a suitable alternative that has the same efficacy and safety profile. The client should continue taking nitroglycerin as prescribed, unless the provider decides otherwise.

Choice C reason: Saying that there's nothing that can be done to relieve the headaches is not a true or helpful statement, as there are some measures that can help reduce or prevent the headaches. Headaches are a common and expected side effect of nitroglycerin, as it dilates the blood vessels in the brain and causes increased intracranial pressure. However, the headaches usually subside over time as the body adapts to the medication. The client can also take a mild analgesic, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve the headache, as long as it does not interact with the nitroglycerin or other medications.

Choice D reason: Trying to take a mild analgesic to relieve the headache is a reasonable and appropriate suggestion, as it can help alleviate the discomfort and improve the quality of life of the client. The client should choose an analgesic that is safe and effective, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and follow the directions on the label. The client should also consult the provider or the pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medications, as some of them may interact with nitroglycerin or other medications. The client should also avoid aspirin, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.

Choice A reason: A headache is not likely due to the anxiety about the chest pain, as anxiety usually causes other symptoms, such as palpitations, sweating, or trembling. A headache is more likely related to the vasodilating action of nitroglycerin, which causes increased blood flow to the brain.

Choice B reason: A headache does not indicate tolerance to the medication, as tolerance usually manifests as a reduced effect of the medication on relieving chest pain. A headache is more likely a sign of the medication's potency, as it indicates that the nitroglycerin is reaching the systemic circulation.

Choice C reason: A headache is an expected adverse effect of the medication, as nitroglycerin causes vasodilation of the cerebral vessels, which can result in increased intracranial pressure and pain. A headache is usually mild and transient, and can be relieved by taking analgesics, such as acetaminophen.

Choice D reason: A headache is not an indication of an allergy to the medication, as an allergic reaction usually causes other symptoms, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. A headache is more likely a pharmacological effect of the medication, rather than an immunological response.