Which teaching point is appropriate for a patient using sublingual nitroglycerin for chronic stable angina?

The correct answer is a crucial point for managing chronic stable angina effectively. When using sublingual nitroglycerin, the recommended protocol is to take one tablet every 5 minutes for up to three doses if chest pain persists. This regimen allows for quick relief of angina symptoms, as nitroglycerin works by dilating blood vessels to improve blood flow to the heart. Understanding the dosing schedule is essential for patients to use the medication safely and effectively during episodes of chest pain.

It’s important for patients to be educated about the method of administration, as sublingual administration is intended to provide fast relief. If the pain does not subside after three doses, it is vital for the patient to seek emergency medical assistance because this may indicate a more serious condition, such as a heart attack.

In this case, other provided options do not align with the key teaching points necessary for safe and effective nitroglycerin use. Swallowing the tablet rather than placing it sublingually would not allow for the rapid absorption into the bloodstream, and advising to call the healthcare provider for a headache might lead to delayed intervention for the medication's intended effects. Keeping the tablets in a dark bottle relates to proper storage but does not directly address the immediate