New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

What should you do when treating a patient with cardiac-related chest pain who is prescribed nitroglycerin?

1. Confirm that the patient is not allergic to aspirin and administer aspirin.

2. Contact medical control for permission to give aspirin.

3. Check the patient's blood pressure before administering aspirin.

4. Assist the patient with taking his nitroglycerin first.

The correct answer is: Confirm that the patient is not allergic to aspirin and administer aspirin.

When treating a patient with cardiac-related chest pain who is prescribed nitroglycerin, assisting the patient with taking their nitroglycerin first is the most appropriate action. Nitroglycerin is a medication used to relieve angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart) by dilating blood vessels, improving blood flow, and reducing the workload on the heart. It is typically administered under the tongue, where it can quickly enter the bloodstream and provide relief. It is important to ensure that the nitroglycerin is taken correctly as it is often prescribed for immediate relief. The effects of nitroglycerin can be rapid, making it a priority in the management of acute coronary syndrome or chest pain. Additionally, checking vital signs such as blood pressure before administering nitroglycerin is crucial since it can cause a drop in blood pressure. However, the patient's safety and comfort through the immediate administration of prescribed nitroglycerin takes precedence. Administering aspirin might be indicated as part of the treatment plan after confirming no contraindications, but nitroglycerin's immediate administration is prioritized for a patient experiencing significant chest pain.