Final answer:
Atropine is administered preoperatively primarily to decrease secretions, which helps in preventing aspiration and facilitating intubation. It works by blocking muscarinic acetylcholine receptors and is not used to elevate blood pressure, enhance sedation, or reduce heart rate. B) Decrease secretions Correct Answer (Blank) .
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse understands that atropine is administered preoperatively to decrease secretions. Atropine is an anticholinergic drug that blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, consequently inhibiting the parasympathetic nervous system. This action reduces the production of secretions in the body, which is crucial during surgery to prevent aspiration and facilitate the intubation process. Atropine is not primarily used preoperatively to elevate blood pressure, enhance sedation, or reduce heart rate, although it may have secondary effects on the cardiovascular system. It's essential for the nurse to monitor the patient for any signs of atropine overdose, such as tachycardia, dry mouth, or blurred vision.
It is also noteworthy that atropine counteracts the effects of nerve agents by clearing bronchial secretions, which is one of the critical endpoints for its administration during such poisoning incidents. When considering atropine poisoning, a muscarinic agonist would be the antidote, not an anticholinergic drug. Conversely, ß-blockers are used to treat cardiovascular conditions by inhibiting the effects of norepinephrine and epinephrine on the heart, leading to lower blood pressure and heart rate.