Master Complex Care Exam 2 in 2026 – Your Path to Nursing Excellence Starts Here!

When the heart rate is too low, the aim is to boost SA node automaticity and AV conduction by counteracting the parasympathetic brake or by stimulating the sympathetic system. Atropine blocks acetylcholine on muscarinic receptors in the SA and AV nodes, removing the vagal influence and allowing the heart to beat faster. Epinephrine and dopamine provide sympathetic stimulation via beta-1 receptors, increasing heart rate and conduction, which is especially helpful in bradycardia with instability or persistent low rate. Vagal maneuvers, by design, increase vagal tone and slow the heart, so they’re not used to raise rate. Cardioversion addresses tachyarrhythmias, not bradycardia. Beta blockers slow the heart and would worsen bradycardia, not correct it.