The nurse is preparing to administer epinephrine to a patient who is experiencing an acute bronchospasm. The nurse understands that because epinephrine is a nonselective alpha- and beta-adrenergic agonist, the patient will experience which effects?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Epinephrine is a nonselective alpha- and beta-adrenergic agonist, which means it will have both cardiac and pulmonary effects. It will increase heart rate and contractility while also dilating bronchioles to increase air flow to the lungs. It may also cause mild vasoconstriction, leading to a slight increase in blood pressure. There are no anticholinergic effects associated with epinephrine. The duration of its therapeutic effects may vary depending on the patient and the dose administered.

The Nurse Is Preparing to Administer Epinephrine to a Patient