When providing discharge instructions for a client who has been prescribed sublingual nitroglycerin for stable angina, the nurse should plan to include which instructions?
"Only take one nitroglycerin tablet for each episode of angina."
"Place the nitroglycerin tablet between cheek and gum."
"Call 911 if you develop a headache following nitroglycerin use."
"See if rest relieves the chest pain before using the nitroglycerin."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "Only take one nitroglycerin tablet for each episode of angina."
This instruction is correct. Sublingual nitroglycerin is typically administered as needed for the relief of angina symptoms, with one tablet being the initial dose. If the chest pain persists after 5 minutes, the client may take a second tablet, and if needed, a third tablet after another 5 minutes. However, if the pain is not relieved after three tablets, they should seek immediate medical attention.
B. "Place the nitroglycerin tablet between cheek and gum."
This instruction is incorrect. Sublingual nitroglycerin tablets should be placed under the tongue, allowing them to dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Placing the tablet between the cheek and gum is not the recommended administration route for sublingual nitroglycerin.
C. "Call 911 if you develop a headache following nitroglycerin use."
This instruction is partially correct. Headache is a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to its vasodilatory effects. Clients should be informed about this potential side effect, but not every headache following nitroglycerin use requires immediate medical attention. However, if the headache is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, the client should seek medical evaluation.
D. "See if rest relieves the chest pain before using the nitroglycerin."
This instruction is incorrect. Sublingual nitroglycerin is a rapid-acting medication used to relieve angina symptoms quickly. Clients should not delay taking nitroglycerin and wait for rest to relieve chest pain, as this can lead to worsening symptoms and complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Folic acid deficiency anemia:
Folic acid deficiency anemia is characterized by a lack of folate (vitamin B9), which is essential for red blood cell production. Symptoms can include weakness and fatigue, similar to iron-deficiency anemia. However, folic acid deficiency anemia typically does not cause heavy menstrual periods. Laboratory findings may show a low level of folate in the blood, but the hemoglobin level of 8 g/dL and hematocrit level of 28 g/dL alone do not specifically indicate folic acid deficiency anemia without considering other factors like mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and red blood cell indices.
B. Pernicious anemia:
Pernicious anemia is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, a substance needed for the absorption of vitamin B12. It can lead to symptoms such as weakness and fatigue. However, heavy menstrual periods are not a characteristic feature of pernicious anemia. Laboratory findings may show a low hemoglobin and hematocrit level, but again, other factors such as MCV and vitamin B12 levels would be needed to confirm this type of anemia.
C. Iron-deficiency anemia:
Iron-deficiency anemia occurs due to insufficient iron stores in the body, leading to decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. This type of anemia is commonly associated with symptoms like weakness, fatigue, and heavy menstrual periods in women due to blood loss. The client's hemoglobin level of 8 g/dL and hematocrit level of 28 g/dL are consistent with iron-deficiency anemia, making this the most likely choice based on the information provided.
D. Sickle cell anemia:
Sickle cell anemia is a genetic disorder characterized by abnormal hemoglobin that causes red blood cells to become sickle-shaped and less flexible. It typically presents with symptoms such as anemia, pain crises, and organ damage. However, the client's symptoms of weakness, fatigue, and heavy menstrual periods are not specific to sickle cell anemia. Additionally, sickle cell anemia would have different laboratory findings, including a different pattern on peripheral blood smear and hemoglobin electrophoresis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): CPR is not indicated in this scenario unless the client experiences a cardiac arrest. Chest pain during an exercise stress test does not automatically warrant CPR.
B. Administer sublingual nitroglycerin to allow the client to finish the test: Nitroglycerin is typically used to relieve angina (chest pain) associated with myocardial ischemia. However, in this case, the exercise stress test should be stopped to evaluate the cause of the chest pain before administering nitroglycerin.
C. Stop the test and monitor the client closely: This is the correct action. Chest pain during an exercise stress test may indicate myocardial ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart muscle), and stopping the test allows for further assessment and evaluation of the client's condition.
D. Administer analgesia and slow the test: Administering analgesia (pain medication) is not appropriate without first determining the cause of the chest pain. Slowing the test may not address the underlying issue and could potentially worsen the client's condition if they are experiencing cardiac-related chest pain.
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