Final answer:
The maximum dosage of nitroglycerin without additional medical direction is typically three 0.4mg doses, 5 minutes apart. Nitroglycerin is used sublingually for rapid absorption as a vasodilator to alleviate chest pain in cardiac emergencies, with other treatments for myocardial infarction including aspirin, thrombolytics, and various surgical interventions.
Step-by-step explanation:
You are dispatched to a 70-year old male who is complaining of chest pain and has a history of cardiac problems. In the absence of additional medical direction, the maximum dosage of nitroglycerin that can be given is typically three doses of 0.4mg tablets or sprays, administered 5 minutes apart. It's essential to administer nitroglycerin sublingually (under the tongue) to ensure rapid absorption. The drug works as a vasodilator, primarily through the release of nitric oxide, relaxing the smooth muscle in coronary vessels and helping to alleviate chest pain due to myocardial ischemia.
In cases of myocardial infarction (MI), or heart attack, immediate treatments are crucial. These include supplemental oxygen, aspirin, and nitroglycerin. Aspirin helps to break up clots, which can restore blood flow and reduce the risk of a myocardial infarction.
Longer-term treatments for cardiac issues after an MI might involve thrombolytic agents like streptokinase, anticoagulants like heparin, interventions such as balloon angioplasty, stent placement, bypass surgery, or in extreme cases, heart transplantation or the use of a coronary assist device.