Dental Assistant Practice Exam

What is the primary treatment for angina pectoris?

1. Intravenous fluids

2. Cardiac bypass surgery

3. Nitroglycerin tablet sublingually or translingual spray

4. Beta-blockers

The correct answer is: Nitroglycerin tablet sublingually or translingual spray

The primary treatment for angina pectoris focuses on relieving the symptoms and improving blood flow to the heart. Nitroglycerin, whether administered as a tablet under the tongue or as a spray, plays a crucial role in this process. It works by dilating the blood vessels, which reduces the heart's workload and increases the oxygen supply to the heart muscle. This immediate relief is vital during episodes of angina, as it can rapidly alleviate chest pain caused by insufficient blood flow. Other treatments, such as intravenous fluids, may be relevant in certain clinical situations but do not specifically address angina. Cardiac bypass surgery is more invasive and is typically reserved for severe cases where other treatments are ineffective; it aims to improve overall heart function rather than providing immediate relief from angina attacks. Similarly, while beta-blockers can help manage angina by reducing the heart rate and decreasing oxygen demand, they do not provide the immediate relief that nitroglycerin offers during an angina episode. Thus, the use of nitroglycerin is the preferred and most effective primary treatment for acute episodes of angina pectoris.