Name of

Drug

General Action

Indications

Contraindications

Adverse Reaction

Nursing Responsibilities

Dopamine
250/200
mL
@15cc/hr

Inotropics,
Vasopressors,
Therapeutic:
adrenergics

Adjunct to
standard
measures to
improve: Blood
pressure,
Cardiac output,
Urine output in
treatment of
shock
unresponsive to
fluid
replacement.

Contraindicated
in:
Tachyarrhythmi
as
Pheochromocyt
oma
Hypersensitivity
to bisulfites
(some products).
Use Cautiously in:
Hypovolemia
Myocardial
infarction
Occlusive
vascular diseases

CNS: Headache.
EENT: Mydriasis
(High Dose).
Resp: Dyspnea.
CV: Arrhythmias,
Hypotension,
Angina, ECG
Change,
Palpitations,
Vasoconstriction.
GI: Nausea,
Vomiting.
Local: Irritation At
IV Site.

Assessment
Monitor blood pressure, heart
rate, pulse pressure, ECG,
pulmonary capillary wedge
pressure (PCWP), cardiac
output, CVP, and urinary output
continuously during
administration. Report
significant changes in vital signs
or arrhythmias. Consult
physician for parameters for
pulse, blood pressure, or ECG
changes for adjusting dose or
discontinuing medication.
Monitor urine output
frequently throughout
administration. Report
decreases in urine output
promptly.
If hypotension occurs,
administration rate should be
increased. If hypotension
continues, more potent
vasoconstrictors
(norepinephrine) may be
administered.
Implementation
High Alert: IV vasoactive
medications are potentially
dangerous. Have second
practitioner independently
check original order, dose
calculations and infusion pump