A patient is wheezing and short of breath with a heart rate of 88 beats/minute, a respiratory rate of 24 breaths/minute, and a blood pressure of 124/78 mm Hg. The primary health care prescriber orders a nonselective $\beta$ agonist medication. Besides evaluating the patient for a reduction in respiratory distress, which side effect is of primary concern?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Nonselective beta agonists can cause increased heart rate (tachycardia) as a side effect, which is of primary concern in this scenario.

A Patient Is Wheezing and Short of Breath with a Heart