Question

The nurse has completed medication education with the client who is receiving nitroglycerine (Nitrostat) as therapy for angina. The nurse determines that teaching is effective when the client makes which statement?

1. "I can take 3 tablets, one every10 minutes, but not more than3 tablets in 30 minutes."
2. "I can take 1 tablet every 5 minutes, but not more than 3 tablets in15 minutes."
3. "I can keep taking tablets until the pain is gone, but I should not use more than 5 tablets."
4. "I should call my doctor if my pain is not gone after 15 minutes of taking these tablets.

Answer 1

Effective teaching is indicated by the client's understanding that they can take up to three nitroglycerine tablets, one every 10 minutes, not exceeding three in 30 minutes, and to seek medical help if pain persists.

Step-by-step explanation:

Teaching about the administration of nitroglycerine (Nitrostat) for angina is effective when the client understands the correct dosage and when to seek further medical help. The correct statement that indicates a proper understanding of nitroglycerine administration is: "I can take 3 tablets, one every 10 minutes, but not more than 3 tablets in 30 minutes." Furthermore, if pain persists after the administration of nitroglycerine, it might indicate a more serious condition like a myocardial infarction (MI), which is why the client should be advised to seek immediate medical attention if chest pain is not relieved after taking the prescribed doses of nitroglycerine, traditionally up to three doses within 15 minutes.

In the case of stable angina, pain typically improves with rest or nitroglycerine. However, with unstable angina, which may indicate an imminent heart attack, pain occurs at rest and lasts more than 15 minutes. For someone experiencing unstable angina or signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain not relieved by nitroglycerine, immediate medical intervention is crucial as it can include supplemental oxygen, aspirin, and potentially more advanced treatments such as thrombolytic agents or surgical interventions.