A client who lives with angina pectoris has taken a sublingual dose of nitroglycerin to treat the chest pain he experiences while mowing his lawn. This drug facilitates release of nitric oxide, which will have what physiologic effect?

Question

A) Smooth muscle relaxation of vessels
B) Decreased heart rate and increased stroke volume
C) Increased preload
D) Reduction of cardiac refractory periods

Answer 1

Ans: A
Feedback:
Nitroglycerin produces its effects by releasing nitric oxide in vascular smooth muscle of the target tissues, resulting in relaxation of this muscle and increased blood flow. This drug does not decrease heart rate. Because it vasodilates, it decreases preload. Nitroglycerine does not affect cardiac refractory periods.