Cardiac Medicine Certification (CMC) Practice Exam

What is the initial dosage for nitroglycerin in the IV administration for chest pain relief?

1. 5 mcg/min

2. 10 mcg/min

3. 15 mcg/min

4. 20 mcg/min

The correct answer is: 10 mcg/min

The initial dosage of nitroglycerin for intravenous administration in the context of chest pain relief is typically set at 5 mcg/min, which serves to minimize the risk of adverse effects while effectively managing angina or myocardial ischemia. This low starting dose allows for careful monitoring of the patient's blood pressure and response to treatment. Once the initial dosage is established, it can be adjusted based on the patient's clinical response and tolerance. The initial dosage of 10 mcg/min is commonly utilized as a subsequent increment, provided that the patient shows adequate tolerance and does not exhibit hypotensive episodes or excessive side effects. This titration approach enables the healthcare provider to find the optimal dose for pain relief without compromising hemodynamic stability. Therefore, while 10 mcg/min may be a logical next step in adjustment, starting at 5 mcg/min is critical to ensure safety and allow for gradual escalation of therapy.