Final answer:
It is crucial to take a set of vital signs and transport the patient to the hospital for immediate medical attention. Administering nitroglycerin might be helpful, but only after assessing the patient's vital signs. Oxygen administration and ensuring comfort during transport are also important.
Step-by-step explanation:
A female patient experiencing chest pain and who regularly takes nitroglycerin and "water pills" suggests possible underlying cardiac issues, possibly even a myocardial infarction (MI). The fact that she sleeps propped up on three pillows may indicate orthopnea, a symptom associated with heart failure or other cardiac issues. Given these symptoms, the patient should receive immediate medical attention. While administering nitroglycerin may provide short-term relief by dilating coronary arteries, it is crucial to first take a set of vital signs, including blood pressure and pulse oximetry, to assess the patient's current state. Administering oxygen via non-rebreather may help if hypoxemia is present, but ultimately, ensuring a position of comfort and swiftly transporting the patient to the hospital for further evaluation and treatment is critical. On-going treatments for cardiac issues may include the use of thrombolytic agents, anticoagulants, and interventions such as angioplasty, stent placement, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).