How will the nurse administer a nitroglycerin sublingual tablet to the patient?
Have the patient swallow the tablet with a sip of water.
Crush the tablet and dissolve it in a teaspoon of water.
Place the tablet in the patient’s mouth next to the cheek.
Place the tablet under the patient’s tongue.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Incorrect because swallowing the tablet with water would lead to slower absorption and a delayed onset of action. Nitroglycerin is rapidly absorbed through the oral mucosa, and swallowing it would route it through the digestive system, where it would be absorbed more slowly and less effectively.
Swallowing the tablet could also increase the risk of side effects, such as headache and flushing, due to the larger amount of the drug that would be absorbed systemically.
Choice B rationale:
Incorrect because crushing the tablet and dissolving it in water would also delay its absorption. This method would require the tablet to dissolve in the water before it could be absorbed through the oral mucosa, which would slow down the onset of action.
Crushing the tablet could also damage the medication and make it less effective.
Choice C rationale:
Incorrect because placing the tablet in the patient's mouth next to the cheek would not allow for optimal absorption. The oral mucosa under the tongue is more permeable than the cheek, so placing the tablet under the tongue allows for faster and more efficient absorption.
Placing the tablet in the cheek could also increase the risk of the patient accidentally swallowing it.
Choice D rationale:
Correct because placing the tablet under the patient's tongue allows for rapid absorption and a quick onset of action. The sublingual route is the preferred method of administration for nitroglycerin because it allows the medication to bypass the digestive system and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
This method also allows for the patient to easily remove the tablet if they experience any side effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ineffective breathing pattern related to incisional pain and anesthesia is the priority nursing diagnosis for a patient with shallow respirations following abdominal surgery because it addresses the most immediate and life-threatening concern: impaired gas exchange.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Debridement refers to the removal of dead, damaged, or infected tissue to promote healing. It is not a term used to describe skin breakdown caused by moisture.
Choice B rationale:
Evisceration is the protrusion of internal organs through a wound or surgical incision. It is not relevant to the condition of perineal skin breakdown due to wetness.
Choice D rationale:
Dehiscence is the separation of a surgical wound. It is not applicable in this case, as there is no mention of a surgical wound.
Choice C rationale:
Maceration is a term used to describe skin that has become softened and broken down due to prolonged exposure to moisture. This is the most accurate term to describe the condition of perineal skin breakdown after sitting in wet underclothes for many hours.
Key features of maceration:
Skin softening: The skin becomes white and wrinkled, resembling a prune.
Epidermal loss: The outer layer of skin (epidermis) may slough off, leaving the underlying tissue exposed. Redness: The affected area may become red and inflamed.
Pain or tenderness: The area may be painful or tender to the touch.
Increased risk of infection: Macerated skin is more susceptible to infection due to the breakdown of the skin barrier. Causes of maceration:
Prolonged exposure to moisture: This can include sweat, urine, feces, wound drainage, or excessive bathing. Friction: Rubbing or chafing of the skin can also contribute to maceration.
Impaired circulation: Poor blood flow to the area can make it more vulnerable to maceration. Prevention of maceration:
Keep skin clean and dry: This is the most important step in preventing maceration. Change wet or soiled clothing or dressings promptly.
Apply barrier creams or ointments: These can help to protect the skin from moisture.
Use incontinence products: These can help to keep the skin dry if the patient is incontinent. Reposition the patient frequently: This helps to reduce pressure and friction on the skin.
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