Beta-blockers are a commonly used class of medications for clients with cardiovascular disease, which is why you should review this beta-blockers pharmacology NCLEX® review. Show
Beta-Blockers Pharmacology Practice Questions {{question_current_index+1}}/{{question_max_index+1}} QUESTIONS
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE {{question_current_index+1}}/{{question_max_index+1}} QUESTIONS Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Donec non tellus ut sem commodo blandit. Suspendisse nisi orci, pellentesque faucibus dolor ut, aliquam iaculis est. Sed at turpis sit amet urna malesuada fermentum. Nulla convallis vehicula lobortis. Quisque dictum mauris sed tincidunt congue. Duis finibus turpis massa, sit amet porttitor est dignissim vel. Integer rhoncus sollicitudin ligula, ut feugiat dolor interdum at. Nulla sit amet odio a erat ultricies vestibulum. Aliquam erat volutpat. Curabitur tristique metus sed dapibus fringilla. Sed hendrerit viverra leo, ut consectetur metus mollis vel. Morbi ultricies nibh eu bibendum dignissim. Other 0% 0% The most prescribed indication is hypertension in clients who have either tachycardia (HR > 100 bpm) or in clients with hypertension that was not reduced after initiating other blood pressure medications (e.g. ACE inhibitors, ARBs). Other common indications include atrial fibrillation or general anxiety disorders where the goal is to slow the heart rate in response to stress. Beta-blockers are all named with the suffix “lol” or “olol” which helps when trying to memorize this class of medications Beta-Blocker Indications
Beta-Blocker TypesMOAMOAs work by blocking beta receptors in the central nervous system which slows the heart rate and contractility of the heart. These essentially work by acting against the sympathetic nervous system, the “fight or flight” mechanisms in your body, by preventing the ability of norepinephrine and epinephrine to increase heart rate and force of contraction during times of stress. By blocking this effect, these medications lead to a reduction of heart rate (negative chronotropic) and force of contraction (negative inotropic) which leads to a decrease in resistance, workload, and cardiac output. Adverse Effects of Beta-BlockersBeta-blockers differ on account of their selectivity for beta 1 receptors in the body. Blockers that aren’t cardio-selective may cause blockade of other beta receptors including receptors in the lungs. This can lead to exacerbations in asthmatic clients or in those with COPD as beta 2 blockade causes constriction of the bronchioles in the lungs. One way to remember this is to understand that albuterol (a commonly prescribed bronchodilator for asthma and COPD) is a beta 2 agonist (meaning it activates beta 2 receptors). Antagonism of the beta 2 receptors can cause the opposite effect, constricting the bronchioles in the lungs and making it difficult for clients to breathe. It’s also important to note that some beta-blockers may affect alpha receptors which can yield other physiological effects further reducing blood pressure. Alpha 1 blockade prevents the constriction of the smooth muscle in arterioles – meaning it widens the arteries to allow for less resistance. This leads to a further reduction of blood pressure but a higher risk of severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension.
Amy Stricklen
During my exam, I could literally see and hear him going over different areas as I was answering my questions. This past Friday I retook my Maternity Hesi and this time, I decided for my last week of Holiday break to just watch all of his OB videos. I am proud to say that with Mike’s help I received a score of 928 on my Maternity Hesi!
Amy Stricklen Beta-blockers are a commonly prescribed medication indicated for an array of disease states. These are often safe medications but may be dangerous when given in certain populations. This review should aid in preparing for the NCLEX® and general practice for clients requiring these medications.
Beta-Blockers Pharmacology ConclusionBeta-blockers are a very commonly prescribed class of medications indicated for a variety of treatment. They are used primarily for cardiovascular diseases as well as arrhythmias including atrial fibrillation. Generally, these medications are safe and well tolerated but may require careful consideration prior to giving medications for specific populations. Clients with a history of reactive airway disease, diabetes, or serious bradycardia conditions should only be given beta blockers with extreme caution. Reviewing the NCLEX® Pharmacology Review of Beta-blockers should provide a strong overview of the various considerations that should be in place prior to using these in practice. A firm understanding of how this work as well the potential side effects should aid in studying for the NCLEX® exam as well as preparation for daily practice. References:
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