Cardiac Vascular Nursing Certification Practice Exam

Beta-blockers are commonly prescribed to manage various cardiovascular conditions, but they have the potential to cause respiratory complications, particularly in patients with a history of asthma or reactive airway diseases. The mechanism by which beta-blockers can exacerbate asthma involves their action on beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which are primarily found in the bronchial smooth muscle. By blocking these receptors, beta-blockers can cause bronchoconstriction, leading to difficulty in breathing and worsening asthma symptoms.

In contrast, corneal deposits are more associated with certain medications like chloroquine and tamoxifen rather than beta-blockers. Severe constipation is not a typical side effect of beta-blockers, as they do not significantly affect gut motility. Angioedema, which involves swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, is more commonly associated with ACE inhibitors rather than beta-blockers. Thus, the potential for asthma exacerbation is a well-recognized, undesirable effect specifically associated with beta-blocker therapy.