Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What adverse effect should a nurse monitor for after administering epinephrine for anaphylaxis?

1. Pinpoint pupils.

2. Decreased heart rate.

3. Increased systolic blood pressure.

4. Dry skin.

The correct answer is: Increased systolic blood pressure.

After administering epinephrine for anaphylaxis, it is crucial for a nurse to monitor for increased systolic blood pressure. Epinephrine is a potent adrenergic agonist that stimulates the alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors in the body. This leads to vasoconstriction, an increase in heart rate, and enhanced myocardial contractility, ultimately resulting in a rise in blood pressure. In the context of anaphylaxis, where there is a sudden and severe allergic reaction that can cause hypotension and shock, the goal of epinephrine administration is to counteract these effects. An increased systolic blood pressure indicates that the medication is effectively treating the hypotensive state caused by anaphylaxis and restoring hemodynamic stability. Monitoring for this effect is vital as it helps ensure that the patient is responding appropriately to the treatment, and allows for any necessary adjustments or interventions if elevated blood pressure leads to complications.