A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with a client who has stable angina pectoris. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of what to do when chest pain occurs?

Nitroglycerin is a common medication used to relieve chest pain associated with angina. However, if the client is experiencing ongoing chest pain, it is important to follow the prescribed instructions for nitroglycerin administration, which may involve taking additional doses if needed, as instructed by the healthcare provider. Calling the provider after taking one dose may not address ongoing chest pain adequately. This action, known as the Valsalva maneuver, is not recommended for managing chest pain associated with stable angina. The Valsalva maneuver involves forcibly exhaling while keeping the mouth and nose closed, which can temporarily decrease blood flow to the heart and may exacerbate chest pain. Chewing two aspirin tablets is recommended for acute myocardial infarction to inhibit platelet aggregation, but in stable angina the immediate priority is rest and nitroglycerin. I will stop what I am doing and lie down.” This statement demonstrates an understanding of appropriate action. When experiencing angina, the client should stop any physical activity, sit down, or lie down. Resting helps reduce the heart’s workload and allows blood flow to stabilize.