A patient is to receive a beta agonist. Before administration of this medication, which assessment finding would most concern the nurse?
A) Pulse oximetry reading of 88%
B) Blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg
C) Respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute
D) Heart rate of 110 beats/min

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A beta agonist dilates respiratory smooth muscle, but as a side effect, it can stimulate the heart. A heart rate of 110 beats/min is a concern, because this medication may further increase the already elevated heart rate. A pulse oximetry reading of 88% is a concern, but the medication causes bronchodilation and increased oxygenation; this should increase the pulse oximetry reading. A blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg is on the low side, but this medication may actually cause an increase in blood pressure as a side effect; this should not concern the nurse before administration of the medication. A respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute is elevated; however, this medication should increase oxygenation by bronchodilation, and the patient's respiratory rate should decrease once oxygenation has improved. Therefore, this should not concern the nurse.

A Patient Is to Receive a Beta Agonist