Question

You are preparing to administer bethanechol chloride to your patient. What classification is this drug? Explain the uses of this medication.

Answer 1

Bethanechol chloride (Brand Name: Urecholine)-

Classification:

• Autonomic nervous system agent
• Direct acting cholinergic ( parasympathomimatic) agent

- Action:

• Bethanechol chloride acts principally by producing the effects of stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system.
• It increases the tone of the detrusor urinary muscles, usually producing a contraction sufficiently strong to initiate micturition and empty the bladder.
• Bethanechol primarily affects the urinary and GI tracts.

- Uses:

• Stimulates the bladder to empty used to treat urinary retention, which may occur after surgery, after delivering a baby, and in other situations.
• Acute postoperative and postpartum nonobstructive (functional) urinary retention, and for neurogenic atony of urinary bladder with retention.

Nursing role:

• Assessment of patients health condition, monitor vital signs
• Administer the dose of bethanechol chloride as per doctors order.
• Monitor strict intake output of patient and record it in intake output chart.
• Provide health education to Patient & family members:

1. Monitor Patient's vital signs.
2. Change of position slowly.
3. Do not drive or engage in potentially hazardous activities
4. Report any signs & symptoms of complications immediately.