Two nurses are contrasting the major differences between ...

[MirandaLo]

Two nurses are contrasting the major differences between physostigmine (Antilirium) and neostigmine (Prostigmin). One nurse correctly states that physostigmine (Antilirium)
 
  a. is not as effective for treating poisoning by muscarinic-blocking drugs.
  b. can readily cross the blood-brain barrier.
  c. does not cause any side effects.
  d. cannot reverse the effects of neuromuscular blockers.

Question 2

A patient is brought into the emergency department by ambulance. Based on the patient's signs and symptoms, the physician suspects an overdose of a cholinesterase inhibitor.
 
  Which primary intervention would the nurse prepare for to treat the resultant respiratory depression? a. Physostigmine (Antilirium)
  b. Succinylcholine (Anectine)
  c. Atropine (Sal-Tropine)
  d. Mechanical ventilation

[nickk12214]

Answer to Question 1

B
The basic pharmacology of physostigmine is nearly identical to that of neostigmine, the exception being that physostigmine readily crosses membranes, including the blood-brain barrier. Neostigmine does not.
Physostigmine and neostigmine are both effective for treating poisoning by muscarinic blocking drugs.
Neither physostigmine nor neostigmine is devoid of side effects.
Physostigmine cannot reverse the effects of neuromuscular blockers.

Answer to Question 2

D
An overdose of a cholinesterase inhibitor can lead to respiratory depression, respiratory failure, and death secondary to neuromuscular blockade; therefore the nurse should prepare to place the patient on mechanical ventilation.
Physostigmine is not the primary treatment for cholinesterase overdose.
Succinylcholine is not the primary treatment for cholinesterase overdose.
Atropine can be used to reduce muscarinic stimulation after cholinesterase overdose, but it is not the first action the nurse should anticipate.

[MirandaLo]

TY

[nickk12214]

You're welcome