A client with chronic sinusitis complains of heart palpitations and nervousness following the use of pseudoephedrine (Afrin) nasal spray. The nurse recognizes that these side effects are the result of which classification of medication?

Question

1. Sympathomimetics
2. Adrenergic blockers
3. Histamines
4. Parasympathomimetics

Answer 1

1

Rationale 1: Sympathomimetics, or adrenergic agents, have actions similar to activation of the sympathetic nervous system. They will produce responses characteristic of the fight-or-flight response (accelerated heart rate, palpitations, constricted blood vessels, and raised blood pressure).
Rationale 2: Adrenergic blockers and parasympathomimetics are associated with the rest-and-digest response (slowed heart rate, decreased blood pressure, increased intestinal and gland activity, and relaxed sphincter muscles).
Rationale 3: Histamines contribute to an inflammatory response and constrict smooth muscle.
Rationale 4: Adrenergic blockers and parasympathomimetics are associated with the rest-and-digest response (slowed heart rate, decreased blood pressure, increased intestinal and gland activity, and relaxed sphincter muscles).

Global Rationale: Sympathomimetics, or adrenergic agents, have actions similar to activation of the sympathetic nervous system. They will produce responses characteristic of the fight-or-flight response (accelerated heart rate, palpitations, constricted blood vessels, and raised blood pressure). Adrenergic blockers and parasympathomimetics are associated with the rest-and-digest response (slowed heart rate, decreased blood pressure, increased intestinal and gland activity, and relaxed sphincter muscles). Histamines contribute to an inflammatory response and constrict smooth muscle. Adrenergic blockers and parasympathomimetics are associated with the rest-and-digest response (slowed heart rate, decreased blood pressure, increased intestinal and gland activity, and relaxed sphincter muscles).