Test Prep Blog for the NCLEX-RN Exam

For hospitalized patients, bradycardia (slow heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure) are common symptoms of critical conditions such as shock. The combination of these conditions can significantly lower the patient’s cardiac output and may require immediate treatment. Here, we will review the IDEA acronym to remember four common drugs used in this scenario: isoproterenol, dopamine, epinephrine, and atropine. I—Isoproterenol Isoproterenol is administered intravenously in this context and acts on beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors. Beta-1 adrenergic receptors are located primar...