Final answer:
The client needs further teaching about storing nitroglycerin improperly by carrying it in a clear plastic bag, which could reduce its effectiveness. Proper storage in its original container is crucial to maintain its potency.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that indicates the client needs further teaching is: "I carry my medicine around in a clear plastic bag so that I can get to it easily if I have chest pain." Sublingual nitroglycerin should be stored properly to maintain its stability and effectiveness. Exposure to heat, light, and moisture can deteriorate the medication, rendering it ineffective when needed. It is recommended to keep nitroglycerin in its original, dark glass bottle and away from direct sunlight to ensure its potency.
It is essential to understand that angina requires prompt treatment using nitroglycerin sublingually to alleviate chest pain by dilating the coronary arteries and improving blood flow. This medication has been a cornerstone in the treatment of angina and has proved successful in providing relief by releasing nitric oxide—a vasodilator that relaxes the coronary vessels.
If the patient experiences chest pain that persists after taking three tablets of nitroglycerin, they must seek emergency medical assistance immediately, as it may indicate a more serious condition such as myocardial infarction (MI).