What primary effect should a nurse expect when administering isoproterenol for shock?

When isoproterenol is administered for shock, the primary effect to expect is an increased heart rate. Isoproterenol is a non-selective beta-adrenergic agonist that stimulates beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors. The stimulation of beta-1 receptors in the heart leads to increased heart rate and contractility, which can help improve cardiac output in a patient experiencing shock.

By promoting heart rate elevation, isoproterenol aids in enhancing the blood flow to vital organs that may be compromised due to the insufficient perfusion associated with shock states. This action is crucial in a clinical setting, where rapid improvement in cardiac function and output is necessary to stabilize the patient. Overall, the administration of isoproterenol plays a significant role in managing the physiological responses needed during shock treatment.