A patient is receiving IV nitroglycerin after an acute myocardial infarction. Which of the following is an indication that the nitroglycerin is working?
Explanation
• The desired effect of nitroglycerin is relief of chest pain by dilating the coronary arteries.
• Nitroglycerin mainly dilates systemic veins and arteries, reducing systemic oxygen demands and increasing blood flow to the heart.
• Incorrect:
• Incorrect: Nitroglycerin should lower blood pressure, not elevate it.
• Incorrect: Diarrhea is not a side effect associated with nitroglycerin.