Nitroglycerin

Question 0

Can I as an EMT administer Nitroglycerin ?

Answer 0

No, it must be prescribed to the patient and I will assist the patient.

Question 1

What is the drug action of Nitroglycerin?

Answer 1

Vasodilator, decreases venous return

Question 2

What are the indications of use for Nitroglycerin?

Answer 2

Chest pain of cardiac origin, angina, acute CHF

Question 3

What are the contraindications for administering Nitroglycerin?

Answer 3

Hypotension( systolic pressure less than 100 mm/Hg), use of sildenafil(Viagra) within the past 24 hours, use of tadalafil (Cialis) or vardenafil (Levitra) within past 48 hours.

Question 4

What are the side effects of Nitroglycerin?

Answer 4

Headache, hypotension, tachycardia

Question 5

What are some special notes of Nitroglycerin?

Answer 5

Drug is sensitive to light and moisture, IV access should be established prior to administration of nitroglycerin unless vital signs are stable and you are assisting the patient in taking their own medication, pregnancy category C

Question 6

What is the usual dose for Nitroglycerin?

Answer 6

Adults only: 0.4 mg sublingually, may repeat every 3-5 minutes for 15 minutes. Check with med control for additional doses.

Question 7

What are you going to monitor report and document when administering nitroglycerin?

Answer 7

Vital signs and pain assessment within 5 minutes after administration, blood pressure before Nd after administration.