Glyceryl trinitrate for angina is most effective when given in what route?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Glyceryl trinitrate, also known as nitroglycerin, is most effective for the treatment of angina when given sublingually (under the tongue). This route allows for rapid absorption of the medication directly into the bloodstream, providing quick relief of angina symptoms. Sublingual administration ensures the drug bypasses the first-pass metabolism in the liver, resulting in higher bioavailability compared to oral administration. The sublingual route also allows for a faster onset of action, making it the preferred route for the management of acute angina episodes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: While it may seem counterintuitive that starting a patient on antidysrhythmic therapy could potentially cause dysrhythmias, it is important to remember that antidysrhythmic drugs can have proarrhythmic effects. Proarrhythmia refers to the development of new or more severe dysrhythmias as a result of the medication intended to treat dysrhythmias. This can occur due to various mechanisms, such as altering the electrical conduction system of the heart or disrupting the normal rhythm. Therefore, dysrhythmias are a potential adverse effect that the nurse should monitor for when initiating antidysrhythmic therapy in a patient. It is crucial for the healthcare team to closely monitor the patient's cardiac rhythm and adjust the medication regimen as needed to minimize the risk of proarrhythmia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Adenosine is a medication commonly used to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats, such as supraventricular tachycardia. One of the common side effects of adenosine administration is transient asystole or a brief pause in the electrical activity of the heart. This can cause the heart to stop beating momentarily, leading to a drop in blood pressure and a feeling of lightheadedness in the patient. Therefore, in this scenario where the heart monitor shows an immediate abnormality after adenosine administration, the nurse should prepare to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation and be ready to intervene if the patient's heart rhythm deteriorates further. It is crucial to be proactive and prepared to respond quickly to any adverse effects of the medication to prevent potential harm to the patient. Regular monitoring should also continue to assess the patient's condition and response to treatment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Propranolol is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as beta blockers. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of the stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline on the beta receptors in the body. By blocking these receptors, propranolol helps to reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and the workload on the heart, making it effective in the treatment of conditions such as high blood pressure, angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Furosemide belongs to the therapeutic class of diuretics. Diuretics are medications that promote diuresis, which is the increased production of urine. Furosemide specifically belongs to the loop diuretic class, working by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the loop of Henle in the kidney, leading to increased excretion of water and electrolytes. This mechanism makes it a commonly used medication for conditions such as congestive heart failure, edema, and hypertension.