A nurse administers atropine to a patient before induction of anesthesia for a surgical procedure. When evaluating the effects of this medication, the nurse will:
A) assess for excessive bronchial secretions.
B) expect a reduction in the patient's anxiety.
C) monitor the patient's heart rate.
D) observe for muscle paralysis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Anticholinergic drugs, such as atropine [Sal-Tropine], may be given to reduce the risk of bradycardia during surgery. Atropine can alter bronchial secretions, but the effect would be to reduce them, not increase them. It is not used to reduce anxiety. It does not cause muscle paralysis.

A Nurse Administers Atropine to a Patient Before Induction of Anesthesia