A patient is recuperating in the critical care unit following a cardiac catheterization.
IV nitroglycerin and heparin are being administered.
The patient is sedated but responds to verbal instructions.
After changing positions, the patient reports pain at the right groin insertion site.
What action should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale

Nitroglycerin is a medication that is commonly used to treat chest pain or angina. However, it is contraindicated in patients who have taken sildenafil (Viagra) within the last 24 hours due to the risk of severe hypotension, or low blood pressure. Sildenafil is a type of medication known as a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor, which works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels. Nitroglycerin also works by relaxing blood vessels, so the combination of these two medications can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Choice B rationale

Aspirin is not typically withheld in patients experiencing chest pain. It is often given to patients who are suspected of having a heart attack because it works by preventing blood clots from forming and blocking the blood vessels of the heart.

Choice C rationale

Morphine is often administered to patients experiencing severe chest pain to help relieve the pain and reduce the workload of the heart. It is not typically withheld unless the patient has a known allergy or other contraindication.

Choice D rationale

Heparin is a blood thinner that is often administered to patients who are suspected of having a heart attack to prevent further blood clots from forming. It is not typically withheld unless the patient has a known allergy, other contraindication, or is at high risk of bleeding.

D.

Choice A rationale

Initiation of peripheral IV access is a common procedure in the emergency department for patients who have experienced a fall. This allows for the administration of fluids and medications as needed.

Choice B rationale

An X-ray of the left shoulder and right knee would likely be ordered given the patient’s report of pain in his left shoulder after the fall. This would help to identify any fractures or other injuries.

Choice C rationale

A CT scan of the brain may not be necessary in this case, unless the patient was experiencing symptoms such as confusion, loss of consciousness, or other neurological signs following the fall.

Choice D rationale

Administration of pain medication would likely be initiated based on the patient’s report of pain.