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.

Choice A rationale

Metronidazole is an antibiotic used to treat various infections. Seizure activity is a serious side effect of metronidazole and should be reported to the charge nurse immediately.

Choice B rationale

While headache is a common side effect of metronidazole, it is not as serious as seizure activity and does not necessarily need to be reported to the charge nurse unless it is severe or persistent.

Choice C rationale

A metallic taste in the mouth is a common side effect of metronidazole. It is not a serious side effect and does not need to be reported to the charge nurse.

Choice D rationale

Abdominal cramping can be a side effect of metronidazole. However, it is not as serious as seizure activity and does not necessarily need to be reported to the charge nurse unless it is severe or persistent.