Propranolol is classified as having which of the following pharmacological actions?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Propranolol is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as beta blockers. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of the stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline on the beta receptors in the body. By blocking these receptors, propranolol helps to reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and the workload on the heart, making it effective in the treatment of conditions such as high blood pressure, angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Propranolol belongs to the class of drugs known as beta blockers. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors in the body, resulting in decreased heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output. Propranolol is commonly used to treat conditions such as hypertension, angina, and certain cardiac arrhythmias. It is specifically a non-selective beta blocker, meaning it blocks both beta-1 and beta-2 receptors.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Propranolol is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as beta blockers. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of the stress hormones adrenaline and noradrenaline on the beta receptors in the body. By blocking these receptors, propranolol helps to reduce heart rate, blood pressure, and the workload on the heart, making it effective in the treatment of conditions such as high blood pressure, angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Dopamine is a vasopressor used to treat hypotension by increasing cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance. An interruption in the infusion can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure, which is life-threatening in a patient already experiencing profound hypotension. The nurse's immediate concern should be to ensure the infusion is restarted promptly. While infiltration and extravasation (A) are concerns, they are secondary to maintaining the infusion. Reporting the device (C) is not the priority, and hypertension (D) is unlikely due to an occlusion alarm.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: While it may seem counterintuitive that starting a patient on antidysrhythmic therapy could potentially cause dysrhythmias, it is important to remember that antidysrhythmic drugs can have proarrhythmic effects. Proarrhythmia refers to the development of new or more severe dysrhythmias as a result of the medication intended to treat dysrhythmias. This can occur due to various mechanisms, such as altering the electrical conduction system of the heart or disrupting the normal rhythm. Therefore, dysrhythmias are a potential adverse effect that the nurse should monitor for when initiating antidysrhythmic therapy in a patient. It is crucial for the healthcare team to closely monitor the patient's cardiac rhythm and adjust the medication regimen as needed to minimize the risk of proarrhythmia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: First-generation antihistamines can cause paradoxical central nervous system (CNS) stimulation in children, leading to hyperactivity, agitation, and insomnia. This is contrary to their sedative effects in adults. Reye's syndrome is associated with aspirin, not antihistamines. Cholinergic effects and gastrointestinal symptoms are less common in children.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Senna is a stimulant laxative commonly used to treat constipation. It works by irritating the lining of the intestines, thereby promoting bowel movements. Patients who have not passed stool in several days may benefit from taking Senna to help relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Patients with conditions such as eating disorders, anal fissures, or hemorrhoids may also benefit from stool softeners or other laxatives, but Senna specifically targets constipation due to its stimulant properties. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any laxative therapy to determine the appropriate treatment plan for each individual.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Adenosine is a medication commonly used to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats, such as supraventricular tachycardia. One of the common side effects of adenosine administration is transient asystole or a brief pause in the electrical activity of the heart. This can cause the heart to stop beating momentarily, leading to a drop in blood pressure and a feeling of lightheadedness in the patient. Therefore, in this scenario where the heart monitor shows an immediate abnormality after adenosine administration, the nurse should prepare to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation and be ready to intervene if the patient's heart rhythm deteriorates further. It is crucial to be proactive and prepared to respond quickly to any adverse effects of the medication to prevent potential harm to the patient. Regular monitoring should also continue to assess the patient's condition and response to treatment.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse should withhold administration of the medication and notify the physician. The apical pulse of 58 bpm is below the normal range (60-100 bpm for adults), and propranolol is a beta-blocker that can further decrease the heart rate. Administering propranolol at this low heart rate may cause bradycardia (excessively slow heart rate) which can lead to serious complications. It is important to inform the physician of the low heart rate so that appropriate action or further assessment can be taken before administering the medication.