Which assessment finding indicates that a rapid-acting nitrate has been effective?

The indication that a rapid-acting nitrate has been effective is when the client states that their pain is 0 out of 10. Rapid-acting nitrates are commonly used to relieve angina or ischemic chest pain by dilating blood vessels, which enhances blood flow to the heart muscle and alleviates pain. A pain level of 0 suggests complete relief from symptoms, demonstrating that the medication has achieved its desired effect.

Persistent chest pain indicates that the medication has not worked, while shortness of breath may suggest ongoing ischemia or other issues that the nitrate is meant to address. Feeling dizzy can be a side effect of nitrates due to vasodilation and hypotension, but it does not reflect the efficacy regarding pain relief. Therefore, a report of no pain signifies successful relief and full effectiveness of the treatment.