Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies Q 103

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Nurse Kate is aware that one of the following classes of medication protects the ischemic myocardium by blocking catecholamines and sympathetic nerve stimulation is:

  

     A. Beta-adrenergic blockers

     B. Calcium channel blocker

     C. Narcotics

     D. Nitrates

    

    

Correct Answer: A. Beta-adrenergic blockers

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Beta-adrenergic blockers work by blocking beta receptors in the myocardium, reducing the response to catecholamines and sympathetic nerve stimulation. They protect the myocardium, helping to reduce the risk of another infarction by decreasing myocardial oxygen demand.

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Option B: Calcium channel blockers reduce the workload of the heart by decreasing the heart rate.

Option C: Narcotics reduce myocardial oxygen demand, promote vasodilation, and decrease anxiety.

Option D: Nitrates reduce myocardial oxygen consumption but decrease left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (preload) and systemic vascular resistance (afterload).

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