National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

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Study for the NCCT Medical Assistant Test. Enhance your skills with comprehensive questions and explanations. Prepare for your exam effectively!

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What is an important consideration when prescribing nitroglycerin?

Patient's cholesterol levels
Patient's nitrate tolerance
Patient's kidney function
Patient's weight

The correct answer is: Patient's nitrate tolerance

When prescribing nitroglycerin, it is crucial to consider the patient's nitrate tolerance. Nitroglycerin is a medication commonly used to treat angina pectoris and other heart-related conditions by dilating blood vessels and reducing the heart's workload. However, patients who are on long-term nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, may develop tolerance to the medication, meaning that over time, the drug may become less effective at alleviating symptoms. This tolerance typically develops with continuous use, which can necessitate adjusting the dosage or providing a nitrate-free interval to maintain the medication's efficacy. By considering nitrate tolerance, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive the optimal effect from nitroglycerin therapy and can tailor the treatment plan to achieve the best outcomes in managing their cardiovascular health. Other factors like cholesterol levels, kidney function, and weight, while relevant for overall patient management, do not specifically influence the effectiveness of nitroglycerin or the potential for tolerance as directly as nitrate tolerance does. Thus, focusing on nitrate tolerance is vital for safe and effective pharmacological treatment.