A client with heart failure is started on a beta1-agonist medication to improve cardiac output. The nurse would explain that this medication performs which action?

Question

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. Increases cardiac output
2. Increases the strength of myocardial contractions
3. Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle
4. Prevents low blood pressure
5. Treats high blood pressure

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,2
Rationale 1: Drugs used for their beta1-agonist actions are sometimes called cardiotonic drugs because they increase cardiac output.
Rationale 2: Drugs used for their beta1-agonist actions are sometimes called inotropic agents because they increase the strength of myocardial contraction.
Rationale 3: Beta2 agonists relax bronchial smooth muscle.
Rationale 4: Alpha1 agonists are used for hypotension.
Rationale 5: Alpha2 agonists are used for the treatment of hypertension.
Global Rationale: Drugs used for their beta1-agonist actions are sometimes called cardiotonic drugs because they increase cardiac output. These drugs can also be called inotropic agents because they increase the strength of myocardial contraction. Beta2 agonists relax bronchial smooth muscle. Alpha1 agonists are used for hypotension. Alpha2 agonists are used for the treatment of hypertension.