Vasopressors and inotropes
Topic: Pharmacology
High-alert drugs that support perfusion in shock: vasopressors (e.g., norepinephrine, epinephrine, vasopressin) constrict vessels to raise blood pressure, and inotropes (e.g., dobutamine) strengthen cardiac contraction. Hypovolemia is corrected first; they are given as a continuous infusion by pump, preferably through a central line, and titrated to the ordered mean arterial pressure. Monitor blood pressure continuously, plus heart rate, rhythm, urine output and limb perfusion, and check the infusion site often, because extravasation can cause tissue necrosis.
- Also known as:
- Vasopressors, Inotropes, Vasoactive drugs
- In Turkish:
- Vazopresörler ve inotroplar
What does Vasopressors and inotropes mean?
Vasopressors and inotropes is part of the Pharmacology topic in nursing. Students meet it in class, on clinical placements and while preparing for exams.
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