Atropine Sulfate

Question 1

Class

Answer 1

Parasympatholytic

Anticholinergic

Question 2

Actions

Answer 2

Blocks effects of parasympathetic innervation to the heart which enhances both sinus node automaticity and AV conduction
Relaxes smooth muscle in bronchial tree= bronchodilation
Inhibits glandular secreation in respiratory tract
Inhibits secretions from sweat and salivary glands
Decreases gastrointestinal motility

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

Symptomatic bradyarrhythmias
Symptomatic conduction defects, ie. Stoke Adams syndrome
CPA (asystole, PEA algorithm)
Organophosphate (cholinergic) poisoning
Status asthmaticus (aerosol nebulizer route)

Question 4

Side Effects

Answer 4

Acute psychosis
Vasodilation
Dehydration
Elevated surface temperature
Mydriasis

Question 5

Precautions

Answer 5

Monitor VS, EKG, and mental status
May increase myocardial O2 demand in MI patients and aggravate chest pain
Too low a dose may cause paradoxical bradycardia
Exacerbation of glaucoma
Can cause acute urinary retention in males with enlarged prostate