Questions: Sympathomimetics are often used in the treatment for shock. When the physician prescribes a dopamine drip, what is the expected outcome? Increased vascular tone which will increase the blood pressure Decreased vascular tone which will decrease the blood pressure Increased drowsiness and sedation for intubation Chelation therapy for iron overload

The answer is the first one: Increased vascular tone which will increase the blood pressure.

Explanation for each option:

1. Increased vascular tone which will increase the blood pressure: This is the correct answer. Dopamine is a sympathomimetic drug that acts on dopamine receptors and adrenergic receptors. At certain doses, it increases vascular tone by stimulating alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, leading to vasoconstriction and an increase in blood pressure. This is a desired effect when treating shock, as it helps to improve perfusion to vital organs.

2. Decreased vascular tone which will decrease the blood pressure: This is incorrect. Dopamine does not decrease vascular tone; instead, it increases it, which helps to raise blood pressure.

3. Increased drowsiness and sedation for intubation: This is incorrect. Dopamine is not used for sedation or to induce drowsiness. It is primarily used to support cardiovascular function.

4. Chelation therapy for iron overload: This is incorrect. Chelation therapy is a treatment used to remove heavy metals from the body, such as iron in cases of iron overload. Dopamine has no role in chelation therapy.

In summary, the expected outcome of a dopamine drip in the treatment of shock is increased vascular tone, leading to increased blood pressure.