Pharmacology of Muscle Relaxants
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Questions and Answers

What is a potential consequence of stopping the medication abruptly?

  • Reduction in urinary retention
  • Improved muscle rigidity
  • Enhanced effectiveness of the medication
  • Development of withdrawal reactions (correct)
  • Which dietary change is recommended when taking Baclofen?

  • Avoid high-fiber foods
  • Reduce fluid intake
  • Increase intake of high-protein foods
  • Increase intake of high-fiber foods (correct)
  • Which of the following is an indicator of medication effectiveness?

  • Increased pain
  • Increased muscle spasms
  • Absence of muscle rigidity and spasms (correct)
  • Decreased range of motion
  • What should be monitored to assess the effectiveness of the medication?

    <p>Intake and output (I&amp;O) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of substances should be avoided while using Baclofen?

    <p>CNS depressants (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason to monitor potassium levels in clients receiving neuromuscular blockers?

    <p>To avoid hyperkalemia complications (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why should succinylcholine be avoided in clients with severe burns?

    <p>It carries a high risk of developing hyperkalemia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medication is a centrally acting muscle relaxant?

    <p>Baclofen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the expected pharmacological action of diazepam?

    <p>Mimics the actions of GABA (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of muscarinic agonists?

    <p>Stimulation of muscarine receptors in the GU tract (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition requires cautious use of muscle relaxants like succinylcholine?

    <p>Myasthenia gravis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a therapeutic use of muscarinic agonists?

    <p>Gastroesophageal reflux treatment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following medications should not be used together with general anesthetics?

    <p>Succinylcholine (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common therapeutic use for muscle relaxants?

    <p>Relief from muscle spasm related to injury (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the potential complications of muscarinic agonists?

    <p>Extreme muscarinic stimulation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the pregnancy risk category for most muscle relaxants mentioned?

    <p>Category C (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medication is a prototype muscarinic antagonist?

    <p>Oxybutynin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect do muscarinic antagonists have on the bladder?

    <p>Inhibit bladder contractions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What dietary recommendation should be given to a client taking muscarinic antagonists?

    <p>Increase dietary fiber and fluid intake (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a complication associated with muscarinic antagonists?

    <p>Bradycardia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which nonselective muscarinic antagonist is used for overactive bladder?

    <p>Tolterodine (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the mechanism of action of succinylcholine?

    <p>Mimics ACh by binding with cholinergic receptors (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does pseudocholinesterase play in the action of succinylcholine?

    <p>It degrades succinylcholine, leading to a short duration of action (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following conditions would most likely require the use of a neuromuscular blocking agent?

    <p>General anesthesia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do neuromuscular blocking agents such as vecuronium function?

    <p>They inhibit ACh from binding at the motor end plate (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common therapeutic use for succinylcholine?

    <p>To induce muscle paralysis during electroconvulsive therapy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a reversal agent used for neuromuscular blockers?

    <p>Neostigmine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which route is typically NOT associated with the therapeutic use of neuromuscular blocking agents?

    <p>To boost memory recall (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one consequence of using succinylcholine at the neuromuscular junction?

    <p>Sustained depolarization of muscle fibers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary nursing action for clients suspected of having low levels of pseudocholinesterase?

    <p>Withhold medication if pseudocholinesterase activity is low. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the manifestations of malignant hyperthermia?

    <p>Muscle rigidity and increased temperature. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions should a nurse take if a patient exhibits signs of respiratory depression after a neuromuscular blocker administration?

    <p>Monitor vital signs and have life support equipment available. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key consideration following the administration of succinylcholine?

    <p>Oxygen administration at 100% is necessary. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can muscle pain be evaluated postoperatively in clients?

    <p>Muscle pain in the upper body and back can be common. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct first step if a patient shows signs of malignant hyperthermia during surgery?

    <p>Stop succinylcholine and other anesthetics immediately. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What medication can be administered to decrease the metabolic activity of skeletal muscle during malignant hyperthermia?

    <p>Dantrolene. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a nurse do to help cool a patient experiencing malignant hyperthermia?

    <p>Place ice bags in groin and other areas. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition makes succinylcholine contraindicated due to the risk of hyperkalemia?

    <p>Severe burns (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary action to take when treating decreased oxygen saturation?

    <p>Administer oxygen at 100% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What measure is necessary to prevent hypothermia during treatment?

    <p>Monitor core body temperature (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential adverse effect of abruptly withdrawing from baclofen?

    <p>Visual hallucinations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an appropriate recommendation when administering baclofen?

    <p>Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is oxybutynin contraindicated in clients with glaucoma?

    <p>It increases intraocular pressure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is true regarding the use of baclofen?

    <p>It should be taken with meals to enhance absorption. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct initial action when a client experiences malignant hyperthermia?

    <p>Administer ice to the axilla and groin (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Succinylcholine

    A medication that temporarily paralyzes muscles by mimicking acetylcholine (ACh) and binding to cholinergic receptors at the neuromuscular junction. This prevents ACh from binding, leading to sustained muscle depolarization and paralysis. It's broken down quickly by the enzyme pseudocholinesterase.

    Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

    A type of medication that blocks the action of acetylcholine (ACh) at the neuromuscular junction, preventing nerve signals from reaching muscles and causing paralysis.

    Pancuronium, Atracurium, Vecuronium

    A specific type of neuromuscular blocking agent that works by preventing acetylcholine (ACh) from binding to receptors at the neuromuscular junction. This inhibits nerve depolarization and prevents muscle contraction.

    Neostigmine

    A medication used to reverse the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents. It works by increasing acetylcholine (ACh) levels, allowing nerve signals to reach muscles again.

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    Muscle Relaxants and Antispasmodic Agents

    A type of medication that relaxes muscles by affecting both the central and peripheral nervous systems. They are used for conditions like spasticity and muscle spasms.

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    Muscle Relaxation during Anesthesia

    The use of neuromuscular blocking agents as a part of general anesthesia to relax muscles during surgery.

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    Controlling Respiratory Movements with Ventilation

    The use of neuromuscular blocking agents to control spontaneous muscle movements in patients who are on a ventilator.

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    Seizure Control during Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

    The use of neuromuscular blocking agents to reduce seizures during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), a treatment for some mental health conditions.

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    What is Baclofen?

    Baclofen is a medication used to treat muscle spasms and rigidity.

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    What are some possible side effects of Baclofen?

    Baclofen can cause nausea, constipation, and difficulty urinating.

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    How should you take Baclofen?

    It's important to take Baclofen exactly as prescribed by your doctor and not stop taking it abruptly.

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    What kind of medications should you avoid while taking Baclofen?

    Baclofen can interact with other medications that slow down the central nervous system (CNS).

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    How can you tell that Baclofen is working?

    The effectiveness of Baclofen can be assessed by observing a reduction in muscle spasms, improved range of motion, and an increase in the ability to perform daily activities.

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    Malignant Hyperthermia

    A serious, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs during or after general anesthesia. It's characterized by muscle rigidity, increased temperature, and rapid heart rate.

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    Cholinesterase Inhibitor

    A medication that reverses the effects of certain neuromuscular blocking agents.

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    Pseudocholinesterase

    This enzyme plays a role in breaking down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for muscle contraction.

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    Dantrolene

    A medication that helps reduce the effects of malignant hyperthermia by decreasing the metabolic activity of skeletal muscle.

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    Postoperative Muscle Pain

    Pain that can occur in the upper body and back after surgery. Often attributed to the use of neuromuscular blocking agents.

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    Nurse's Role in Neuromuscular Blocking Agent Administration

    A healthcare professional responsible for monitoring clients receiving neuromuscular blocking agents.

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    Hyperkalemia

    An abnormally high level of potassium in the blood.

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    Neuromuscular Blocker

    A medication that temporarily paralyzes muscles, used during surgery and mechanical ventilation.

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    Muscle Relaxants

    A class of drugs that relax muscles, often used to reduce muscle spasms.

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    Succinylcholine Contraindication

    Succinylcholine is contraindicated in clients with severe burns, multiple trauma, or upper motor neuron injury because it can cause dangerously high potassium levels.

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    Centrally Acting Muscle Relaxant

    A type of muscle relaxant that acts directly on the central nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal cord.

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    Peripherally Acting Muscle Relaxant

    A type of muscle relaxant that acts on the muscles themselves, not the nervous system.

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    Neuromuscular Blocker Effects

    Neuromuscular blockers aren't sedatives, they don't affect awareness, pain perception, or thinking abilities. They just relax muscles.

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    Neuromuscular Blocker and Anesthesia

    Using general anesthesia with neuromuscular blockers can lead to very strong muscle paralysis.

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    Muscarinic Agonists

    A group of medications that mimic the effects of acetylcholine (ACh) at muscarinic receptors, especially in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and urinary bladder.

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    Bethanechol

    A medication that stimulates muscarinic receptors in the bladder, leading to relaxation of the bladder sphincter and contraction of the bladder muscle, which helps promote urination.

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    Muscarinic Antagonists

    A group of medications that block the effects of acetylcholine (ACh) at muscarinic receptors, primarily in the bladder.

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    Oxybutynin

    A medication that selectively blocks M3 muscarinic receptors in the bladder, reducing bladder muscle contractions and preventing the urge to urinate frequently.

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    Anticholinergic Effects

    The most common side effect of muscarinic antagonists, including oxybutynin.

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    Overactive Bladder

    A condition characterized by frequent and involuntary bladder contractions, leading to a strong urge to urinate.

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    Darifenacin

    A medication used to treat overactive bladder by selectively blocking M3 muscarinic receptors in the bladder.

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    Solifenacin

    A medication used to treat overactive bladder by selectively blocking M3 muscarinic receptors in the bladder, similar to darifenacin.

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    Why is succinylcholine contraindicated in clients at risk for hyperkalemia?

    Succinylcholine is a medication that causes temporary muscle paralysis. It's contraindicated for clients with risk factors for hyperkalemia, a dangerous increase in potassium levels. This is because succinylcholine can cause muscle breakdown, which releases potassium into the bloodstream.

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    What methods can be used to reduce a client's body temperature?

    A cooling blanket, ice packs on the axilla and groin, and iced IV fluids can all help reduce a client's body temperature, especially in cases of malignant hyperthermia.

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    How is baclofen dosing managed to prevent CNS depression?

    Baclofen is a medication used to treat muscle spasms. It's typically started at a low dose and gradually increased to minimize the risk of central nervous system (CNS) depression.

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    What substances should be avoided while taking baclofen?

    Baclofen can interact with other medications that depress the CNS, potentially leading to increased sedation or other adverse effects. Therefore, clients should avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking baclofen.

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    Why is oxybutynin contraindicated in clients with glaucoma?

    Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic medication that can increase intraocular pressure. It's contraindicated for clients who have glaucoma, a condition that already affects intraocular pressure.

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    Why is it important to avoid abruptly stopping baclofen?

    Abruptly stopping baclofen can lead to serious side effects, including visual hallucinations and seizures. It's important to gradually decrease the dose under medical supervision.

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    How can clients reduce their risk of constipation when taking baclofen?

    Baclofen can cause constipation, so it's recommended that clients increase their fluid intake and fiber consumption to help prevent this side effect.

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    Why are clients with malignant hyperthermia at risk for hyperkalemia?

    Malignant hyperthermia is a serious condition that can develop during or after general anesthesia. Clients with this condition are at risk for hyperkalemia, so it's crucial to monitor potassium levels and take appropriate measures.

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    Study Notes

    Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

    • Used for muscle relaxation during general anesthesia, seizure control during electroconvulsive therapy, and suppressing the gag reflex during intubation.
    • Examples include succinylcholine and vecuronium.

    Muscle Relaxants and Antispasmodics

    • Affect both central and peripheral nervous systems.
    • Used for spasticity related to muscle injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis.
    • Examples include diazepam, baclofen, and dantrolene.

    Bethanechol

    • Muscarinic agonist used for urinary retention.

    Oxybutynin

    • Muscarinic antagonist used for neurogenic bladder.

    Succinylcholine

    • Mimics acetylcholine by binding to cholinergic receptors, causing sustained muscle depolarization and paralysis.
    • Short duration of action due to rapid degradation by plasma enzyme pseudocholinesterase.

    Pancuronium, Atracurium, Vecuronium

    • Block acetylcholine from binding to cholinergic receptors, inhibiting nerve depolarization and causing muscle relaxation.
    • Reversal agent: neostigmine.

    Therapeutic Uses of Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

    • Adjuncts to general anesthesia for muscle relaxation
    • Control of spontaneous respiratory movements in mechanically ventilated clients
    • Seizure control during electroconvulsive therapy
    • Endotracheal intubation and endoscopy

    Complications of Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

    • Respiratory arrest from paralyzed respiratory muscles
    • Nursing actions include continuous cardiac and respiratory monitoring, resuscitation and mechanical ventilation equipment readiness, and monitoring respiratory function return after medication discontinuation.

    Atracurium

    • Potential for hypotension due to histamine release
    • Nursing actions include monitoring blood pressure and administering antihistamines as needed.

    Succinylcholine

    • Prolonged apnea is possible in clients with low pseudocholinesterase activity.
    • Nursing actions include testing pseudocholinesterase activity and withholding medication if activity is low.

    Other Medications

    • Atracurium, cisatracurium, rocuronium, vecuronium (nondepolarizing neuromuscular blockers).
      • Block acetylcholine
    • Diazepam, cyclobenzaprine, tizanidine (centrally acting muscle relaxants), baclofen (centrally acting muscle relaxant), dantrolene (peripherally acting muscle relaxant)
      • Act in the CNS to enhance GABA and produce sedative effects, depress spasticity.
    • Bethanechol, cevimeline, pilocarpine, acetylcholine (muscarinic agonists)
      • Stimulate muscarinic receptors, increasing bladder pressure and urine excretion
    • Oxybutynin, darifenacin, solifenacin, tolterodine, fesoterodine, trospium (muscarinic antagonists)
      • Inhibit muscarinic receptors, preventing bladder contractions and urge to void.

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    Description

    This quiz focuses on the pharmacological aspects and considerations surrounding muscle relaxants such as Baclofen and Succinylcholine. Questions assess knowledge about potential consequences, dietary changes, monitoring effectiveness, and medication interactions. Ideal for students learning about pharmacology in nursing or medical courses.

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