Question

The client is in shock with a blood pressure of 60/20 mm/Hg. The physician orders isoproterenol (Isuprel) intra-venously (IV). The family is quite anxious and asks what "that liquid" is for. What is the best response of the nurse?

1. "It is called a vasopressor and will help the kidneys increase and maintain blood pressure."
2. "This drug is a vasopressor and helps the heart beat more effectively, which will increase blood pressure."
3. "Vasopressor drugs act on the renin-angiotension system and thus increase blood pressure."
4. "This drug is a vasopressor and will help stabilize blood pressure by making the blood vessels smaller."

Answer 1

The nurse should explain that isoproterenol (Isuprel) is a vasopressor that increases the effectiveness of the heart's pumping action, thereby increasing blood pressure, which is crucial for a patient in shock with very low blood pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's best response to the family regarding the purpose of isoproterenol (Isuprel) would be, "This drug is a vasopressor and helps the heart beat more effectively, which will increase blood pressure." Isoproterenol is a medication that works by stimulating the heart's beta-1 receptors, resulting in an increased heart rate and cardiac output. This, in turn, improves blood pressure in the state of shock where it is critically low. While isoproterenol also has some effect on blood vessels, it is primarily the heart's enhanced pumping ability that is critical in correcting the low blood pressure (60/20 mm/Hg) seen in this client.

Furthermore, although isoproterenol is used in the management of shock, it is not a drug that works on the renin-angiotensin system nor does it mainly constrict blood vessels to raise blood pressure. It serves to improve cardiac output which is a crucial factor in managing shock. Vasopressor drugs are often used in critical care settings to stabilize patients experiencing severe hypotension and shock.