Defining the Proper Role for Self-administered Sublingual Nitroglycerin

Sublingual Nitroglycerin Practices in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease in Australia

“…8Y15 Most patients identified correct symptoms to treat with SLNTG, and no incorrect symptoms were included, despite concerns raised in previous studies. 11,12 Patients were also well informed regarding the administration methods, dosage, timing, and sequence and that the SLNTG could expire. 9,13,14 However, notable knowledge deficits occurred in relation to the use of SLNTG to prevent angina symptoms in stable angina, which has been noted in the literature.…”

“…4Y6,12 Although information on SLNTG may be gathered from other sources, instruction by health professionals is important because it is associated with better understanding. 12 There is also some evidence that patients' knowledge levels may not be adequate for safe administration of SLNTG. 12 For instance, although most patients prescribed SLNTG know to use the medication for acute symptoms such as chest pain (75%), they are less aware of other relevant symptoms such as chest discomfort, radiating pain, nausea, and arm or jaw pain.…”

“…12 There is also some evidence that patients' knowledge levels may not be adequate for safe administration of SLNTG. 12 For instance, although most patients prescribed SLNTG know to use the medication for acute symptoms such as chest pain (75%), they are less aware of other relevant symptoms such as chest discomfort, radiating pain, nausea, and arm or jaw pain. 8,9,13 Patients may also overgeneralize the symptoms they treat, using SLNTG inappropriately for multiple symptoms such as palpitations or dizziness.…”

“…8,9,13 Patients may also overgeneralize the symptoms they treat, using SLNTG inappropriately for multiple symptoms such as palpitations or dizziness. 11,12 On the other hand, most patients are reported to be aware of important safety requirements such as dosing and body position, 9,11,13,14 but are less aware of other safety requirements such as storage, prophylactic use, and when to seek medical assistance. 8,11,14,15 Several limitations were evident in the literature related to SLNTG knowledge in CAD patients.…”

“…Finally, only 2 studies investigated the factors that would identify patients at risk of poor SLNTG knowledge. 12,13 In these studies, female sex, older age, and a more recent diagnosis were found to be associated with worse knowledge, although only a limited range of factors was tested. An understanding of the factors associated with knowledge deficits in relation to SLNTG and how often SLNTG is prescribed would not only help nurses identify gaps in discharge processes, but also help the patients who may need additional information and support.…”