Answer and explanation
The correct answer is B. If chest pain is not relieved after taking one nitroglycerin tablet three
times at 5-minute intervals, call the emergency medical service (EMS).
Choice A rationale
While flushing, dizziness, and general body warmth can occur with each sublingual tablet
taken, these are side effects of the medication and not the primary intended effect. The main
purpose of nitroglycerin is to relieve chest pain associated with angina.
Choice B rationale
This is the most important instruction. Nitroglycerin is used to treat episodes of angina. If
chest pain is not relieved after taking one nitroglycerin tablet three times at 5-minute
intervals, it could indicate a more serious condition, such as a heart attack. In this case,
immediate medical attention is necessary.
Choice C rationale
A pounding headache is a common side effect of both the nitroglycerin patch and the
sublingual tablets. However, the presence of a headache does not indicate whether the
medication is effectively treating angina.
Choice D rationale
While it’s true that nitroglycerin patches are used for long-term prevention and sublingual
tablets are used for acute attacks, this is general information about the medication and not the
most important instruction for a patient who has been prescribed nitroglycerin.

Attaching the patient to a continuous cardiac monitor is crucial in this situation. It allows for real-time monitoring of the patient’s heart rate and rhythm, providing valuable information about the patient’s cardiovascular status.

Choice C rationale

Administering a fluid bolus can be beneficial in certain situations. It can help increase the patient’s blood volume, which can improve blood pressure and organ perfusion. This is particularly important if the patient is showing signs of hypovolemia or shock.

Choice F rationale

Preparing for cardioversion is another important step. Cardioversion is a medical procedure that restores a normal heart rhythm in people with certain types of abnormal heartbeats (arrhythmias). It’s usually done by sending electric shocks to your heart through electrodes placed on your chest.

Choice G rationale

Administering an extra dose of furosemide can be helpful. Furosemide is a type of medicine called a diuretic. It’s used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and oedema (a build up of fluid in the body). It’s also sometimes used to help you pee when your kidneys aren’t working properly.