Cholinergics

Medication class detail with safety cues and nursing action focus.

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NeuroRenal / Urinary / Electrolytesneeds review

Cholinergics

Examples: bethanechol, pilocarpine

Mechanism

Turns on parasympathetic activity, so secretions and smooth muscle activity increase while heart rate may slow.

Used for

  • Urinary retention
  • Glaucoma support
  • Parasympathetic stimulation

Side effects

  • Bradycardia
  • Bronchospasm
  • Diarrhea
  • Sweating
  • Hypotension

Nursing actions

  • Check pulse, blood pressure, and respiratory status before giving.
  • Monitor for excess secretions, wheezing, diarrhea, and syncope.
  • Teach the student hook: cholinergic equals wet and slow.

Hold / question cues

  • Bradycardia
  • Asthma flare or wheezing
  • Hypotension

Antidote / reversal

  • atropine for severe cholinergic toxicity per order

NCLEX pearl

  • SLUDGE: salivation, lacrimation, urination, diarrhea, GI cramping, emesis.