Adrenergic Receptors and Their Physiological Effects Quiz

Which adrenergic receptor is primarily responsible for vasoconstriction in blood vessels?

• Beta1

• Beta2

• Alpha1

• Alpha2

Answer explanation

The Alpha1 adrenergic receptor is primarily responsible for vasoconstriction in blood vessels. When activated, it causes smooth muscle contraction, leading to increased vascular resistance and blood pressure.

Stimulation of which receptor leads to increased contractility in cardiac muscle?

• Alpha1

• Beta1

• Beta2

• Alpha2

Answer explanation

Stimulation of Beta1 receptors in cardiac muscle increases contractility by enhancing calcium influx during action potentials, leading to stronger heart contractions. This is crucial for improving cardiac output.

Which receptor is responsible for decreased motility (relaxation) in GI smooth muscle?

• Alpha1 only

• Beta1 only

• Alpha1 and Beta2

• Beta2 only

Answer explanation

Alpha1 and Beta2 receptors mediate relaxation in GI smooth muscle. Alpha1 primarily causes contraction, but Beta2 activation leads to decreased motility and relaxation, making the correct answer Alpha1 and Beta2.

Why should dopamine only be used in the ICU and not be self-administered by the patient?

• It can cause tissue damage if IV leaks

• It causes urinary retention

• It is only effective when injected into the thigh

• It is used for allergic reactions only

Answer explanation

Dopamine should only be used in the ICU because it can cause tissue damage if the IV leaks. This risk makes self-administration unsafe, as patients may not be able to monitor the infusion site properly.

What is a common side effect of phenylephrine when used as a nasal spray?

• Rebound congestion

• Nausea

• Chest pain

• Fast heart rate

Answer explanation

Rebound congestion is a common side effect of phenylephrine nasal spray, occurring when the nasal passages become more congested after the medication wears off, leading to a cycle of increased use.

A patient receiving dobutamine should be taught to report which of the following symptoms immediately?

• Chest pain or dizziness

• Rebound congestion

• Cold hands/feet

• Headache

Answer explanation

Patients on dobutamine should report chest pain or dizziness immediately, as these symptoms may indicate serious cardiovascular issues or adverse reactions that require prompt medical attention.

What is the main action of dobutamine?

• Makes the heart beat stronger and faster

• Shrinks nasal blood vessels

• Opens kidney vessels at low dose

• Tightens vessels and increases blood pressure

Answer explanation

Dobutamine primarily acts as a positive inotropic agent, which means it increases the strength and rate of heart contractions, making the heart beat stronger and faster.

A patient using phenylephrine nasal spray should be advised not to use it for more than how many days?

• 1 day

• 3 days

• 7 days

• 10 days

Answer explanation

Phenylephrine nasal spray should not be used for more than 3 days to avoid rebound congestion. Prolonged use can lead to worsening nasal congestion once the medication is stopped.

If a patient on Mirabegron reports trouble urinating and high blood pressure, what should the nurse do?

• Ignore the symptoms

• Report trouble urinating and check BP

• Increase the dose

• Stop the medication immediately

Answer explanation

The correct action is to report the patient's trouble urinating and check their blood pressure, as these symptoms may indicate adverse effects of Mirabegron that require further assessment.

Which of the following medications is a nonselective Beta-blocker combined with an Alpha1-blocker and is used to relax blood vessels and slow the heart, thereby lowering blood pressure and heart workload?

• Carvedilol

• Esmolol

• Metoprolol

• Phentolamine

Answer explanation

Carvedilol is a nonselective Beta-blocker that also blocks Alpha1 receptors, helping to relax blood vessels and reduce heart workload, making it effective for lowering blood pressure. The other options do not have this combined action.