After assisting a patient with her EpiPen, she tells you that it is much easier for her to breathe. However, her heart rate has increased from 92 to 118 beats per minute. Regarding the epinephrine, the EMT recognizes the increased heart rate as a(n):

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An increased heart rate is a common side effect of epinephrine, which is a sympathomimetic drug that stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. While it may be an unwanted side effect for some patients, it is a necessary effect in treating anaphylaxis by helping to maintain cardiac output and blood pressure.

After Assisting a Patient with Her EpiPen, She Tells You