A patient with hypovolemic shock secondary to widespread second- ...

[swpotter12]

A patient with hypovolemic shock secondary to widespread second- and third-degree burns is being mechanically ventilated.
 
  The patient appears agitated, and the respiratory therapist is unable to synchronize the ventilator to the patient. Which drug can the respiratory therapist suggest to the ICU team to sedate this patient and synchronize ventilation?
  a. Fentanyl
  b. Morphine
  c. Propofol
  d. Succinylcholine

Question 2

The group of drugs that interact with GABA receptor complex on neurons in the brain is which of the following?
 
  a. Opioids
  b. Paralytics
  c. Benzodiazepines
  d. Depolarizing agents

[Viet Thy]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Fentanyl has minimal effects on the cardiovascular system and does not cause histamine release, as does morphine. It also has minimal effects on the renal system compared with other opioids. Therefore, fentanyl is the opioid of choice for patients with unstable hemodynamic status and renal insufficiency. Morphine and propofol have hemodynamic effects that may worsen this pa-tient's hypovolemia. Succinylcholine is a paralyzing agent. Paralyzing agents should not be given without sedatives.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Benzodiazepines exert their effects through a nonspecific depression of the central nervous sys-tem. This is accomplished when these drugs bind to benzodiazepine sites on the gam-ma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor complex on neurons in the brain.