Paramedic National Registry Practice

What is the primary medication for a patient experiencing congestive heart failure (CHF)?

1. Aspirin

2. Nitroglycerine

3. Amiodarone

4. Metoprolol

The correct answer is: Nitroglycerine

The primary medication for a patient experiencing congestive heart failure (CHF) is nitroglycerine. Nitroglycerine is a vasodilator, which means it relaxes and widens blood vessels. This action decreases the workload of the heart and improves blood flow, leading to reduced symptoms of CHF such as shortness of breath and chest pain. By alleviating the pressure on the heart and promoting better circulation, nitroglycerine can be particularly effective in acute situations where a rapid response is necessary. In treating CHF, it is essential to address fluid overload and improve cardiac output. While other medications like diuretics and ACE inhibitors are also commonly utilized in the long-term management of CHF, nitroglycerine serves as a valuable acute intervention that can rapidly relieve the patient’s symptoms by enhancing hemodynamics. Therefore, it is often considered a primary medication in emergency or acute settings related to CHF. Understanding the mechanism of action for nitroglycerine helps clarify why it is favorable in these situations despite other medications that may also play a role in long-term management plans for heart failure.