The nurse is teaching a patient diagnosed with aortic stenosis appropriate strategies for attempting to relieve the symptom of angina without drugs. What should the nurse teach the patient?

Question

A) To eat a small meal before taking nitroglycerin
B) To drink a glass of milk before taking nitroglycerin
C) To engage in 15 minutes of light exercise before taking nitroglycerin
D) To rest and relax before taking nitroglycerin

Answer 1

Ans: D
Feedback:
The venous dilation that results from nitroglycerin decreases blood return to the heart, thus decreasing cardiac output and increasing the risk of syncope and decreased coronary artery blood flow. The nurse teaches the patient about the importance of attempting to relieve the symptoms of angina with rest and relaxation before taking nitroglycerin and to anticipate the potential adverse effects. Exercising, eating, and drinking are not recommended prior to using nitroglycerin.