A patient who took an overdose of verapamil has been treated with gastric lavage and a cathartic. The emergency department nurse assesses the patient and notes a heart rate of 50 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 90/50 mm Hg. The nurse will anticipate:
A) administering intravenous norepinephrine (NE) and atropine and glucagon.
B) assisting with direct-current (DC) cardioversion.
C) placing the patient in an upright position.
D) preparing to administer a beta blocker.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Verapamil toxicity can cause bradycardia and hypotension. Atropine and glucagon should be given to treat bradycardia and NE for hypotension. DC cardioversion is indicated for ventricular tachydysrhythmias,which this patient does not have. Patients with hypotension should be placed in Trendelenburg's position. Beta blockers will only exacerbate these effects.

A Patient Who Took an Overdose of Verapamil Has Been