Dental Nursing Apprenticeship Practice Exam – Prep Guide & Study Guide

In the context of managing angina, the appropriate emergency drug is indeed a combination of nitroglycerin spray (GTN spray) and oxygen. Nitroglycerin spray is a potent vasodilator that helps to relax and widen blood vessels, which can alleviate the pain of angina by improving blood flow to the heart muscle. This immediate response is crucial during an angina attack, as it can relieve chest pain and help prevent further complications.

Oxygen is also an important component of this response, especially in cases where oxygen delivery to the heart is compromised. By administering supplemental oxygen, you ensure that the heart muscle gets enough oxygen, which is crucial during ischemic events like angina.

While other medications such as aspirin can have their uses in similar cardiovascular events (like in the case of a heart attack), the combination of GTN spray and oxygen is specifically tailored to relieve angina symptoms effectively and quickly. Adrenaline and morphine are typically not used to address angina and could potentially complicate the management of the condition rather than provide immediate relief.

This combination of GTN and oxygen is favored in emergency situations because of its rapid action and effectiveness in treating angina attacks, making it the best choice in this scenario.