A nurse is discussing phentolamine (OraVerse) with a nursing ...

[erika]

A nurse is discussing phentolamine (OraVerse) with a nursing student. Which statement by the student indicates the need for further teaching?
 
  a. Phentolamine can be used to block both epinephrine- and norepinephrine-mediated vasoconstriction.
  b. Phentolamine can be used to treat pheochromocytoma.
  c. Phentolamine is a competitive adrenergic agonist that acts selectively on alpha1 receptors.
  d. Side effects of phentolamine may include tachycardia and hypotension.

Question 2

A patient is taking a beta-adrenergic antagonist medication for angina pectoris and asks the nurse how the drug works to relieve the discomfort associated with this condition.
 
  Which statement by the patient after the nurse's teaching indicates understanding of the drug's effects?
  a. It causes bronchodilation, which increases oxygen flow.
  b. It helps reduce the heart's oxygen needs.
  c. It improves blood flow to the heart.
  d. It increases cardiac output.

[Jody Vaughn]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Phentolamine has actions on both alpha1 and alpha2 receptors; it is not selective for alpha1 receptors only. It blocks both epinephrine- and norepinephrine-mediated vasoconstriction. It is used to treat pheochromocytoma. Side effects include tachycardia and hypotension.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Blockade of beta1 receptors in the heart reduces cardiac work by reducing the heart rate, the force of contraction, and the velocity of impulse conduction through the AV node. Beta blockers result in bronchoconstriction, not bronchodilation. They do not increase blood flow to the heart. Cardiac output is decreased, not increased.

[erika]

Great answer, keep it coming

[gcook]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it