Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 69%
Simulated
A nurse administered nitroglycerin sublingually to a client who has angina pectoris and experienced chest pain. The client states that his chest pain is relieved but now he has a headache. Which of the following responses by the nurse is appropriate?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A because headache is a common side effect of nitroglycerin due to its vasodilatory effects. The nurse should educate the client that this side effect is expected and may diminish with continued use. Choice B is incorrect because an allergic reaction would present with more severe symptoms beyond just a headache. Choice C is incorrect as it does not address the physiological reason for the headache. Choice D is incorrect as tolerance to nitroglycerin does not manifest as a headache.