Final answer:
Before administering nitroglycerin for angina, a nurse should advise the patient to rest and sit or lie down to prevent dizziness. Nitroglycerin acts as a vasodilator to relieve chest pain. The patient should be monitored for side effects and educated on when to seek urgent medical help.
Step-by-step explanation:
Administering Nitroglycerin for Angina
Before administering nitroglycerin to a client for the treatment of angina, it is important for the nurse to advise the patient to rest and to sit or lie down, as nitroglycerin can cause dizziness and a rapid drop in blood pressure upon standing (orthostatic hypotension). Nitroglycerin works by releasing nitric oxide which helps to dilate the blood vessels, thus improving blood flow to the heart muscle and relieving chest pain. Given its role in managing acute chest pain, the nurse should ensure the patient is in a safe position should vasodilatory symptoms like fainting occur.
The nurse should also be prepared to monitor the patient for any side effects and ensure that they are educated about the signs that require immediate medical attention. For example, if the angina pain does not improve or if it intensifies after taking nitroglycerin, emergency assistance should be sought as this could indicate a progression from stable to unstable angina, or even a myocardial infarction (heart attack).