Atropine

Question 1

Parm. and Action

Answer 1

Muscarine-cholinergic blocking agent; Increases heart rate by blocking vagal response; Increases conduction through the AV node and increases ventricular sensitivity to atrial impulses; reduces motility and tone of the GI tract; Reduces action and tone of bladder which may cause urinary retention; dilates pupils.

Question 2

Indications

Answer 2

Symptomatic bradycardias; 2nd and 3rd degree AV blocks and pacemaker failure; Organophosphate and nerve gas poisoning.

Question 3

Contraindications

Answer 3

A- fib and A-flutter; Glaucoma

Question 4

Administration

Answer 4

Adult- 0.5-1.0 mg IV push, repeat if needed in 3-5 minute intervals to a maximum dose of 0.3-0.4 mg/kg. Pediatric dose 0.01-0.02 mg/kg

Question 5

Side Effects and Special Notes

Answer 5

Do not treat bradycardia unless there is signs of poor perfusion (chest pain, low blood pressure, decreased mental status); In organophosphate poisoning, massive doses of 10-20 mg or more may be needed; titrate by watching patient response

Question 6

Class

Answer 6

A