The nursing process in the case of a patient with propanolol poisoning hospitalized in the Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Acute chemical poisonings constitute a very serious social problem. According to the World Health Organization, they are the fourth most common cause of death worldwide. In people aged 50 or more, they are the second most common cause of death, the top cause being trauma. Acute drug poisoning most often results from suicide attempts. Such intentional poisonings occur especially among women aged 15–25 and men aged 30–49. Propranolol is a nonselective β receptor antagonist, having equal affinity for β-1 and β-2 receptors. It exerts a membrane stabilizing effect, blocks β receptors, inhibits the action of catecholamines on target tissues, and reduces catecholamine concentration and cardiotoxicity. Blocking the β-adrenoreceptors slows heart rhythm, and reduces myocardial contractility and excitability. Nursing care based on the nursing process allows for an individual approach to each patient and their needs. The purpose of the paper is to describe the nursing process in the case of a patient with propanolol poisoning hospitalized in the Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit.