Question

A client with midsternal pain presents to the emergency department. Vital signs are stable. Which form of nitroglycerin does the nurse anticipate giving initially?

1 Oral
2 Spray
3 Intravenous
4 Transdermal

Answer 1

For a client with midsternal pain and stable vital signs, the nurse would anticipate administering nitroglycerin sublingually, either as a tablet or spray, for rapid absorption and relief of chest pain.

The correct answer is option 2 spray.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client presenting with midsternal pain and stable vital signs in the emergency department is likely experiencing chest pain potentially related to a heart condition such as angina or myocardial infarction (MI).

The nurse would anticipate administering nitroglycerin sublingually (under the tongue), as immediate treatments for MI include supplemental oxygen, aspirin, and nitroglycerin to dilate the coronary arteries and improve blood flow.

The use of nitroglycerin via sublingual tablets or spray allows for rapid absorption and quick relief of chest pain.