Question

A client has experienced a myocardial infarction (MI) and upon discharge is given a prescription for, nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) to be taken as needed sublingually. The client asks the nurse what this little pill will do. How should the nurse respond?

Select one:
a. "Nitroglycerin opens the arteries to allow more oxygen to be delivered to the heart muscle."
b. "Nitroglycerin improves blood flow to the heart muscle by increasing blood pressure."
c. "Nitroglycerin causes vasoconstriction, which decreases the amount of oxygen needed by the heart."
d. "Nitroglycerin reduces vasospasms of the heart's arteries, which improves blood supply."

Answer 1

Nitroglycerin opens the arteries to allow more oxygen to be delivered to the heart muscle.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) is a medication used to treat chest pain caused by reduced blood supply to the heart muscle, also known as angina. It works by triggering the release of nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to dilate or expand. This dilation of the arteries allows more oxygen to be delivered to the heart muscle, reducing chest pain and improving blood flow to the heart.