Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse (CPAN) Practice Exam

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Why is atropine administered in conjunction with edrophonium during postoperative recovery?

Decreases the likelihood of vomiting
Promotes acetylcholine release
Enhances the onset of neuromuscular reversal
Minimizes muscarinic stimulation

The correct answer is: Minimizes muscarinic stimulation

Atropine is administered with edrophonium to minimize muscarinic stimulation, which is particularly important in the context of postoperative recovery. Edrophonium is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that enhances the effect of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, promoting muscle recovery after neuromuscular blockade. However, increased levels of acetylcholine can also activate muscarinic receptors, leading to unwanted side effects such as bradycardia, increased secretions, and gastrointestinal motility. By administering atropine, which is an anticholinergic agent, the undesirable effects associated with the activation of muscarinic receptors are mitigated. This allows for a more favorable recovery environment, ensuring the patient can recover from anesthesia without experiencing the adverse reactions that might stem from increased muscarinic activity. Other options, while related to the context of anesthesia and recovery, do not correctly describe the primary reason for the combined use of atropine and edrophonium in this scenario.