The nurse is preparing to assist with a growth hormone provocative test for a child with short stature. The nurse recognizes that which pharmacologics should be used to provoke the release of growth hormone (GH)? (Select all that apply.)
A) Larodopa (levodopa)
B) Clonidine (Catapres)
C) Propranolol (Inderal)
D) Cortisone (hydrocortisone)
E) Biosynthetic growth hormone

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

GH stimulation, or provocative testing, involves the use of pharmacologics to provoke the release of GH either directly or indirectly. Provocative testing involves the use of neuromodulators such as levodopa or agents such as clonidine, arginine, insulin, propranolol, or glucagon followed by the measurement GH blood levels. Cortisone is given to replace hormone deficiencies that can occur with GH deficiency. Biosynthetic GH is used to treat GH deficiency.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Assist with a Growth Hormone