Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

5 Cardiovascular Emergencies, CPR and AED

If the patient does not have nitroglycerin or if after taking one dose there is no relief of symptoms: Confirm that the patient has no allergy to ASA (Aspirin®). If the patient has not been advised otherwise by their doctor, then have them chew a single ASA tablet or two low dose ASA tablets.

4. Nitroglycerin is a sub-lingual medication. It is not swallowed. It goes under the tongue where it is absorbed through the skin of the mouth. • Place tablet(s) under the tongue or spray under the tongue. • Tell the patient not to swallow while the pills or spray dissolves. 5. Nitroglycerine can be repeated as needed every 5 to 10 minutes to a maximum of 3 doses. An angina attack or AMI is a frightening experience and anxiety and fear will only put more stress on the heart. Continually reassure the patient and keep them calm.

A person experiencing chest pain, that is believed to be cardiac in origin, should chew (2) 81mg tablets of aspirin while waiting for paramedics to arrive.

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