Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN Spray)

Question 1

Indications

Answer 1

Confirmed Angina- Mycocardial Ischemic pain

Question 2

Contraindications / cautions

Answer 2

‘SHITS’
-Suspected AMI
- Hypotension: systolic BP under 100
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-tachycardia over 130bpm
-symptomatic bradycardia under 45bpm

Cautions: As a first responder you don’t know which side of heart is affected therefore if you suspect a AMI, DON’T give GTN as this can proof fatal.

Question 3

Dose/Route

Answer 3

0.4mg under tongue (sublingual) every 3-5mins - typically one spray.

Note: patients may use their own spray BUT they must never administer more than 2 sprays in a quick succession.

Question 4

Actions

Answer 4

Short-acting, systemic wide vasodilation, acts predominantly on the veins.

Therefore will reduce blood pressure (short-term)