What is the most suitable medication recommendation for a patient experiencing chest pain with ST-segment elevation?

Study for the Board‑Certified Emergency Medicine Pharmacist Test. Review flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare for your BCEMP exam!

In the context of a patient experiencing chest pain with ST-segment elevation, the administration of nitroglycerin intravenously at a dosage of 10 mcg/min is a suitable recommendation. Nitroglycerin is a potent vasodilator that works by relaxing smooth muscle in blood vessels, leading to decreased myocardial oxygen demand. This effect is crucial in managing acute coronary syndrome, particularly in the setting of ST-segment elevation, as it can help alleviate chest pain, reduce hemodynamic strain on the heart, and improve coronary blood flow.

Administering nitroglycerin intravenously allows for more precise control of infusion rates and allows for titration to effect based on the patient's response. This is particularly useful in acute care settings where patients may rapidly change in their clinical condition. The role of nitroglycerin in this scenario emphasizes its importance not only in symptomatic relief but also in its pharmacologic benefits during acute coronary events.

While other options like metoprolol or morphine may have roles in the management of coronary syndromes, they are not first-line interventions for immediate treatment in the acute phase as nitroglycerin. For example, beta-blockers like metoprolol can reduce heart rate and myocardial oxygen demand but may not provide

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