Arizona State University (ASU) NUR 436 Experiential Learning: Advanced Midterm Practice Test

Epinephrine works on both alpha and beta receptors, producing vasoconstriction to raise blood pressure, bronchodilation to open airways, and increased heart rate and contractility to boost cardiac output. These combined effects make it life-saving in several acute emergencies. It is indicated for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to counter airway swelling and bronchospasm and to stabilize blood pressure, during resuscitation for cardiac arrest to improve perfusion, for hypotension and shock to support vascular tone, and for asthma attacks to relieve bronchospasm. It is not used for pain management, and hyperglycemia is not an indication; epinephrine may raise glucose levels as a side effect, but that is not the therapeutic goal.