Which adverse effect is commonly associated with nitroglycerin administration in a responsive patient?

Which adverse effect is commonly associated with nitroglycerin administration in a responsive patient?

• A. Hypertension with tachycardia
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. No changes in vital signs
• D. Dizziness and hypotension

Answer: (D)

Nitroglycerin causes veins to dilate, which lowers venous return to the heart and reduces blood pressure. That drop in blood pressure can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness, and if it falls further, true hypotension. Dizziness paired with hypotension is a common and expected adverse effect when nitroglycerin is given to a responsive patient. Some patients also notice a headache from the same vasodilatory effect. Hyperglycemia is not tied to nitroglycerin, and while reflex tachycardia can occur, the hallmark effect most closely linked to nitro in a responsive patient is dizziness with hypotension.

Nitroglycerin causes veins to dilate, which lowers venous return to the heart and reduces blood pressure. That drop in blood pressure can lead to dizziness or lightheadedness, and if it falls further, true hypotension. Dizziness paired with hypotension is a common and expected adverse effect when nitroglycerin is given to a responsive patient. Some patients also notice a headache from the same vasodilatory effect. Hyperglycemia is not tied to nitroglycerin, and while reflex tachycardia can occur, the hallmark effect most closely linked to nitro in a responsive patient is dizziness with hypotension.