What is a side effect of nitroglycerin?

A. A client with an emphysema exacerbation: Clients experiencing an acute exacerbation of emphysema often have increased airway obstruction and difficulty breathing. A small volume nebulizer delivers bronchodilators directly to the lungs, providing rapid relief of bronchospasm and improving oxygenation.

B. A client experiencing an asthma attack: During an asthma attack, airway constriction can be severe. An SVN allows precise delivery of inhaled medications like albuterol, which rapidly dilate the airways and reduce respiratory distress, making it essential for urgent intervention.

C. A client with a common cold and fever: A common cold typically causes mild upper respiratory symptoms such as congestion and runny nose. SVNs are not indicated for routine cold management, as bronchodilator therapy is not necessary in uncomplicated viral infections.

D. A client with significant respiratory symptoms: Clients showing significant respiratory distress, regardless of underlying cause, may benefit from an SVN to administer medications that relieve bronchospasm, decrease airway inflammation, and improve ventilation rapidly.

E. A client with mild seasonal allergies: Mild seasonal allergies usually present with sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal congestion without significant airway obstruction. SVNs are not indicated for mild allergic symptoms, as oral or intranasal antihistamines are sufficient.

A. Decreased activity tolerance: A reduction in activity tolerance would indicate worsening cardiovascular status rather than a therapeutic effect. Effective antianginal therapy should improve, not diminish, the client’s ability to perform physical activities without pain.

B. Decreased nausea and vomiting: While some antianginal medications may reduce side effects such as nausea, this is not a primary therapeutic goal. The main purpose of antianginal therapy is to relieve myocardial ischemia and prevent angina episodes.

C. Decreased occurrence of headaches: Headaches can occur as a side effect of certain antianginal drugs, like nitrates, but a decrease in headaches does not indicate improved angina control. Therapeutic effectiveness is measured by symptom relief, not by side effect reduction.

D. Decreased episodes of chest pain: A reduction in the frequency, intensity, or duration of angina episodes reflects the desired therapeutic effect of antianginal drugs. This indicates improved myocardial oxygen delivery and better management of ischemic symptoms.