Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test

What effect does nitroprusside primarily have?

1. Protective agent against heart failure

2. Potent venous and arterial dilator

3. Enhancer of myocardial contractility

4. Natural diuretic agent

The correct answer is: Potent venous and arterial dilator

Nitroprusside is primarily recognized for its action as a potent venous and arterial dilator. This property stems from its ability to release nitric oxide, which causes smooth muscle relaxation in the blood vessels. By dilating both the arteries and veins, nitroprusside effectively reduces systemic vascular resistance and venous return, leading to decreased preload and afterload on the heart. This makes it particularly useful in clinical situations where rapid and effective lowering of blood pressure is required, such as hypertensive emergencies or acute heart failure, as it helps improve cardiac output and reduces myocardial oxygen demand. In contrast to the other options, nitroprusside does not primarily serve as a protective agent against heart failure, enhance myocardial contractility, or act as a natural diuretic. These characteristics underscore the specific therapeutic application of nitroprusside in managing acute cardiovascular conditions through its unique properties as a vasodilator.