A patient with pheochromocytoma is admitted for surgery. The surgeon has ordered an alpha-blocking agent to be given preoperatively. What does the nurse understand about this agent?
a. It is ordered to prevent perioperative hypertensive crisis.
b. It prevents secretion of catecholamines by the adrenal tumor.
c. It reduces contraction of smooth muscles in the adrenal medulla.
d. It is given chronically after the surgery to prevent hypertension.
ANS: A
Manipulation of the adrenal tumor in patients with pheochromocytoma can cause a massive catecholamine release. Alpha-adrenergic antagonists are given to reduce the risk of acute hypertension during surgery. These agents do not prevent secretion of catecholamines; they block catecholamine receptor sites. They do not act on the tissue of the adrenal medulla. They are given chronically in patients who have inoperable tumors.
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