Epinephrine

Question 1

Epinephrine - Class (3)

Answer 1

• Sympathomimetic
• alpha/beta adrenergic (agonist)
• endogenous catecholamine

Question 2

Epinephrine - Actions (3)

Answer 2

• causes positive inotropic/chronotropic/dromotropic effects (beta effects)
• peripheral vasoconstriction (alpha) which increases the coronary perfusion pressure
• bronchial dilation

Question 3

Epinephrine - Indications (3)

Answer 3

• ACLS tx algorithms- Bronchospasm (asthma)- Anaphylaxis (relieve bronchoconstriction and degranulation of mast cells)

Question 4

Epinephrine - Contraindications (4)

Answer 4

• Hypersensitivity- Hypovolemic Shock- Coronary Insufficiency- Hypertension

Question 5

Epinephrine - Side Effects (9)

Answer 5

HaD N/V & HANTTA- HA - Dilated Pupils- HTN- Anxiety- Nervousness- Tremor- Tachycardia- Arrhythmias

Question 6

Epinephrine - Precautions (5)

Answer 6

• Inactivated in alkaline solution (bicarb)- May increase myocardial O2 demand due to tachycardia- Do not give subcu for anaphylaxis if pale/cool/diaphoretic- AC IV preferred with fluid bolus if coded- inform RN of infiltration can cause tissue sloughing