The patient has been complaining of chest pressure.After the appropriate assessment,the nurse gives the patient sublingual nitroglycerin,telling the patient not to swallow the medication.Why are these instructions important?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If swallowed,the drug is destroyed by gastric juices or is detoxified so rapidly by the liver that therapeutic blood levels are not attained.
Orally disintegrating formulations begin to dissolve when placed on the tongue.Sublingual medications,however,are placed under the tongue.For sublingually administered medications: Have patient place medication under tongue,and allow it to dissolve completely.Water is not needed for these medications.

The Patient Has Been Complaining of Chest Pressure