Inotrope
from class: Pharmacology for Nurses Definition Inotropes are medications that alter the force or energy of cardiac contractions. They are crucial in managing heart conditions, especially during cardiac emergencies and shock.
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Predict what's on your test 5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test Inotropes can be positive (increasing contractility) or negative (decreasing contractility). Commonly used positive inotropes include dopamine, dobutamine, and epinephrine. Inotrope administration is essential in treating conditions like heart failure and cardiogenic shock. Monitoring for side effects such as arrhythmias and hypertension is critical during inotrope therapy. Dosing of inotropes must be carefully titrated based on patient response and specific clinical scenarios. Review Questions What is the primary function of an inotrope? Name two commonly used positive inotropic agents. Why is monitoring for arrhythmias important when administering inotropes?
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