Osmosis video - Cholinergic therapy (GU): Nursing pharmacology

Urinary cholinergic agents are medications that activate muscarinic receptors in the bladder to stimulate contractions and aid in bladder emptying. Bethanechol is a commonly used urinary cholinergic agent that is used to treat urinary retention or other bladder-related conditions. It is administered orally or subcutaneously, and the dosage is adjusted based on the patient's response to the medication.

While effective, urinary cholinergic agents like Bethanechol can have side effects that include urinary urgency, bradycardia, hypotension, dyspnea, blurry vision, lacrimation, diaphoresis, hypersalivation, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Nursing considerations when caring for a client taking bethanechol include a focused assessment of urinary symptoms, and monitoring for side effects and therapeutic effects. Client teaching is focused on self-administration and learning to recognize and manage side effects.