How much nitroglycerin should be administered to a patient experiencing angina?

The recommended dose of nitroglycerin for the relief of angina is typically 0.4 mg. This dosage is effective in providing rapid relief of angina symptoms by dilating blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow to the heart. Nitroglycerin can be administered sublingually (under the tongue) to allow for quick absorption into the bloodstream, which is particularly important during episodes of angina.

The other choices presented may exceed the generally accepted dosing standards. While nitroglycerin can be used in different forms and dosages depending on the specific circumstances and patient characteristics, 0.4 mg is the common immediate dosage for treating acute angina episodes in many clinical protocols. This dosage ensures patient safety while also providing effective relief from the chest pain associated with angina.