Maternity Nursing Q 90

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After administering bethanechol to a patient with urine retention, the nurse in charge monitors the patient for adverse effects. Which is most likely to occur?

  

     A. Decreased peristalsis

     B. Increase heart rate

     C. Dry mucous membranes

     D. Nausea and Vomiting

    

    

Correct Answer: D. Nausea and Vomiting

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Bethanechol will increase GI motility, which may cause nausea, belching, vomiting, intestinal cramps, and diarrhea. Bethanechol directly stimulates cholinergic receptors in the parasympathetic nervous system while stimulating the ganglia to a lesser extent.

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Option A: Peristalsis is increased rather than decreased. Stimulation of muscarinic receptors in the GI tract restores peristalsis, increases motility, and increases the resting lower esophageal sphincter pressure.

Option B: With high doses of bethanechol, cardiovascular responses may include vasodilation, decreased cardiac rate, and decreased the force of cardiac contraction, which may cause hypotension.

Option C: Salivation or sweating may gently increase because of its cholinergic effects.

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