1. The nurse is aware that adrenergic drugs produce effects similar to which of these nervous
systems?
a. Central nervous system
b. Somatic nervous
... [Show More] system
c. Sympathetic nervous system
d. Parasympathetic nervous system
Adrenergic drugs mimic the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.
2. When an adrenergic drug stimulates beta1-adrenergic receptors, the result is an increased force
of contraction, which is known as what type of effect?
a. Positive inotropic
b. Anti-adrenergic
c. Negative dromotropic
d. Positive chronotropic
An increased force of contraction is known as a positive inotropic effect.
3. When a patient is taking an adrenergic drug, the nurse expects to observe which effect?
a. Increased heart rate
b. Bronchial constriction
c. Constricted pupils
d. Increased intestinal peristalsis
Increased heart rate is one of the effects of adrenergic drugs. Sympathetic nervous system stimulation
also results in bronchodilation, dilated pupils, and decreased gastrointestinal mobility, depending upon
which receptors are stimulated.
4. An adrenergic agonist is ordered for a patient in shock. The nurse will note that this drug has had
its primary intended effect if which expected outcome occurs?
a. Volume restoration
b. Increased cardiac output
c. Decreased urine output
d. Reduced anxiety
For a patient in shock, a primary benefit of an adrenergic agonist drug is to increase cardiac output. A
drug in this category should not be used in place of volume restoration, nor does it provide volume
restoration (IV fluids do this). Adrenergic agonists may enhance urine output if cardiac output and
perfusion to the kidneys increase. These drugs do not reduce anxiety.
5. The nurse is administering a stat dose of epinephrine. Epinephrine is appropriate for which
situation?
a. Severe hypertension
b. Angina
c. Cardiac arrest
d. Tachycardia
Treatment of cardiac arrest is an indication for the use of epinephrine. The other options are not
indications for epinephrine. [Show Less]