Atropine: Mechanism, Uses, and Effects

What is atropine primarily used for in the ACLS algorithm?

• Managing hypotension

• Managing hypertension

• Treating bradycardia

• Treating tachycardia

How does atropine affect the parasympathetic nervous system?

• It enhances parasympathetic activation

• It blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors

• It increases acetylcholine release

• It stimulates norepinephrine production

Which of the following is a common side effect of atropine?

• Muscle cramps

• Hypotension

• Blurred vision

• Increased salivation

What is the most common route of administration for atropine in emergency settings?

• Inhalation

• Intravenous

• Ophthalmic

• Oral

In which condition is atropine the first-line treatment in the ACLS algorithm?

• Hypertensive crisis

• Symptomatic bradycardia

• Ventricular fibrillation

• Atrial fibrillation

Why might atropine be used in secretion management?

• It enhances sympathetic activation

• It increases secretion production

• It blocks parasympathetic activation

• It reduces heart rate

What is the role of atropine in reversing paralytics?

• It reduces sympathetic activation

• It counteracts increased acetylcholine

• It enhances muscle relaxation

• It stimulates muscle contraction

What is a potential use of atropine in cases of organophosphate poisoning?

• To increase acetylcholinesterase activity

• To block acetylcholine receptors

• To stimulate norepinephrine release

• To enhance parasympathetic effects

How is atropine typically administered in the field for organophosphate poisoning?

• Topically

• Intravenously

• Via autoinjector

• Orally

What is the typical hospital treatment dose of atropine for organophosphate poisoning?

• 0.5 to 1 mg

• 2 to 5 mg

• 10 to 20 mg

• 50 to 100 mg