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

Nitroglycerin can be administered in which of the following forms?

1. Oral tablet

2. Injection

3. Topical ointment

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Nitroglycerin can be administered in various forms, making it versatile for treating conditions such as angina pectoris and heart failure. The correct answer indicates that all the mentioned methods—oral tablet, injection, and topical ointment—are valid routes for administration. Oral tablets allow for convenient usage, particularly for maintenance therapy, where patients can take the medication to prevent angina episodes. Injectable forms are often used in acute care settings, where rapid onset is crucial, as they work quickly to relieve chest pain. Topical ointments provide a sustained release of nitroglycerin, which can be applied periodically for long-term management of angina. Each method serves different purposes, depending on the urgency of the situation and the desired duration of effect, highlighting the adaptability of nitroglycerin as a treatment option.