When teaching a patient who has a new prescription for transdermal nitroglycerin patches, the nurse tells the patient that these patches are most appropriately used for which situation?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Transdermal nitroglycerin patches are primarily used for the prevention and management of angina pectoris, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart. Nitroglycerin works by dilating the blood vessels, which helps to improve blood flow to the heart muscle and reduce the workload on the heart. By preventing angina episodes, nitroglycerin patches can help to alleviate chest pain, improve exercise tolerance, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients with angina. It is not used to prevent low blood pressure, relieve shortness of breath, or control heart rate during exercise.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Albuterol is typically administered through inhalation as an aerosol or nebulized solution to provide quick relief of bronchospasm in conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It can also be administered intravenously in emergency situations for severe bronchospasm or anaphylaxis. Albuterol is not formulated as an extended-release oral medication due to the need for rapid onset of action in managing acute bronchospasm.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Beta blockers are commonly used in the treatment of migraine headaches. These medications work by blocking the action of certain chemicals that cause blood vessels to dilate. By helping to prevent blood vessel dilation and constriction, beta blockers can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Additionally, beta blockers are thought to interfere with the transmission of pain signals in the brain.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The therapeutic levels for digoxin are typically considered to be between 0.5 % 2 ng/mL. This range is associated with optimal therapeutic effects of digoxin in managing heart conditions such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Levels below 0.5 ng/mL may be subtherapeutic while levels above 2 ng/mL can lead to toxicity symptoms like nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring digoxin levels within the therapeutic range ensures the medication is effective and safe for the patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nitroglycerine is commonly used as a therapeutic agent for the relief or prevention of anginal attacks in patients with stable angina or chronic angina pectoris. Angina is a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. Nitroglycerine works by dilating blood vessels, which helps to increase blood flow to the heart and reduce the workload of the heart, thereby relieving chest pain associated with angina.