Ch. 18 Adrenergic Drugs Flashcards
The nurse is aware that adrenergic drugs produce effects similar to which of these nervous systems?
Sympathetic nervous system
When an adrenergic drug stimulates beta1-adrenergic receptors, the result is an increased force of contraction, which is known as what type of effect?
positive inotropic effect
When a patient is taking an adrenergic drug, the nurse expects to observe which effect?
increased heartrate
An adrenergic agonist is ordered for a patient in shock. The nurse will note that this drug has had its primary intended effect if which expected outcome occurs?
increased b/p
The nurse is administering a stat dose of epinephrine. Epinephrine is appropriate for which situation?
cardiac arrest
A patient is on a low-dose dobutamine drip for heart failure. She had been feeling better but now has a sense of tightness in her chest, palpitations, and a bit of anxiety. Her heart rate is up to 110 per minute, and her blood pressure is 150/98 mm Hg (increased from previous readings of 86 per minute and 120/80 mm Hg). What is the nurse’s immediate concern for this patient?
The medication may be causing a worsening of a preexisting cardiac disorder.
A 14-year-old patient has been treated for asthma for almost 4 months. Two weeks ago, she was given salmeterol as part of her medication regimen. However, her mother has called the clinic to report that it does not seem to work when her daughter is having an asthma attack. Which response by the nurse is appropriate?
“This medication is indicated for prevention of bronchospasms, not for relief of acute symptoms.”
A hospitalized patient is experiencing a severe anaphylactic reaction to a dose of intravenous penicillin. Which drug will the nurse expect to use to treat this condition?
epinephrine
A patient is receiving a moderate-level dose of dobutamine for shock and is complaining of feeling more “skipping beats” than yesterday. What is the nurse’s next action?
Discontinue the dobutamine immediately.
The nurse is preparing to administer dopamine. Which is the correct technique for administering dopamine?
Continuous IV infusion with an infusion pump
The nurse is presenting information to a class of students about adrenergic drugs. Which are effects of drugs that stimulate the sympathetic nervous system? (Select all that apply.)
dilation of bronchioles, increased heart rate, dilated pupils, glycogenolysis
