JBL EMT Practice Exam

Nitroglycerin is contraindicated in patients:

1. who have experienced a head injury

2. who have taken up to two doses

3. with a history of an ischemic stroke

4. with a systolic blood pressure less than 120 mm Hg

The correct answer is: who have experienced a head injury

Nitroglycerin is contraindicated in patients who have experienced a head injury because nitroglycerin can decrease blood flow to the brain, leading to further damage. Additionally, in patients with a head injury, their blood pressure may already be unstable and taking nitroglycerin could further lower their blood pressure, causing additional harm. The other options are incorrect because B: Nitroglycerin should not be taken in doses higher than recommended by a healthcare provider, not just up to two doses. C: Although patients with a history of an ischemic stroke may be at higher risk for dizziness and low blood pressure when taking nitroglycerin, it is not necessarily contraindicated. This decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. D: While nitroglycerin can lower blood pressure, there is no specific cutoff for systolic blood pressure where it would automatically be contraindicated. The decision to give nitroglycerin should be based on the patient's individual blood pressure and overall medical condition.