A nurse is assessing a client who has muscarinic agonist poisoning. Following administration of atropine, which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse
that the treatment has been effective?

A) Bradycardia - Epinephrine commonly causes tachycardia, not bradycardia.

B) Chest pain - Chest pain can be an adverse effect of epinephrine due to its potential to increase myocardial oxygen demand and exacerbate ischemia.

C) Respiratory depression - Epinephrine typically causes bronchodilation and may exacerbate respiratory distress but does not typically cause respiratory depression.

D) Hypoglycemia - Epinephrine can cause hyperglycemia due to its glycogenolytic effects, not hypoglycemia.

A. Monitor the client for dysrhythmias- The significant decrease in potassium levels (hypokalemia) can predispose the client to cardiac dysrhythmias, so monitoring for any signs or symptoms of dysrhythmias is essential.
B. Advise the client to restrict potassium intake- With potassium levels already low (hypokalemia), restricting potassium intake further could exacerbate the deficiency. Instead, the client may need to increase their potassium intake through dietary changes or supplementation under healthcare provider guidance.
C. Advise the client to take the medication before bedtime- There's no medication mentioned in the scenario that requires a specific timing like before bedtime.
D. Check the client for orthostatic hypotension- The client reports dizziness and light- headedness upon standing, which are indicative of orthostatic hypotension. Checking for orthostatic hypotension involves measuring blood pressure and heart rate in different positions (lying, sitting, and standing) to assess for postural changes.
E. Advise the client to change positions slowly- Given the client's symptoms of dizziness and light-headedness upon standing, advising them to change positions slowly can help prevent falls or injuries associated with orthostatic hypotension.