When should nitroglycerin be administered to a patient with chest pain?

Administering nitroglycerin to a patient with chest pain should always involve an assessment of the patient's blood pressure prior to giving the medication. This is crucial because nitroglycerin acts as a vasodilator, which can significantly lower blood pressure. If the patient's blood pressure is too low, administering nitroglycerin could lead to severe hypotension, possibly resulting in adverse cardiovascular events.

Monitoring the patient's blood pressure ensures that the paramedic can confirm that the medication is safe to give. Generally, nitroglycerin is indicated for patients experiencing angina or presumed cardiac-related chest pain, as long as their blood pressure is within a safe range. This precaution helps ensure effective and safe treatment for the patient presenting with chest pain.

Considering the context of other options, administering nitroglycerin solely based on a previous prescription or in the presence of shortness of breath or cardiac arrest does not cover the safety assessment required in emergency situations. A thorough evaluation, including blood pressure measurement, remains the priority in determining the appropriateness of nitroglycerin administration.