Los Angeles County Protocols Practice Test

In cases of respiratory distress related to congestive heart failure (CHF), nitroglycerin is often advised as an effective medication. Nitroglycerin serves as a vasodilator, which means it works by relaxing and widening blood vessels. This can help reduce the heart's workload by decreasing the amount of blood returning to the heart (preload) and lowering the pressure in the heart and lungs. As a result, it can alleviate symptoms of respiratory distress caused by fluid overload and congestion.

In addition, nitroglycerin can also help improve oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, which is critical when the heart is struggling to pump effectively. This can be particularly beneficial in acute heart failure scenarios where immediate relief of symptoms is necessary.

Other treatments might support management of CHF, but nitroglycerin is specifically indicated when symptoms of respiratory distress arise due to the condition. It is also important to distinguish that while oxygen therapy can assist with hypoxemia and diuretics can manage fluid overload effectively, nitroglycerin is directed towards the cardiac-related component causing the respiratory symptoms. Antihistamines, which target allergic reactions, do not address the underlying mechanisms of CHF-related respiratory distress and are therefore not appropriate in this situation.