Paralytics and bronchospasm

[AnnieOaklyRN, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

Hi all,

We had a little debate at work the other day as to whether or not paralytics actually paralyze the smooth muscles of bronchi and brochioles and prevent bronchospasm that is present when intubating an asthma patient.

My thought was that they do not paralyze the smooth muslce in bronchioles, but someone else said yes they do...

So just looking for the correct answer. I tried researching this online and I was unable to find the answer.

Thanks for any info.

Sweetooth

[Divergirl]

Muscle relaxants work only on skeletal muscle. All muscle relaxants work by binding to the nicotinic receptor at the motor end plate. Smooth muscles contain muscarinic receptors. Muscle relaxants do not bind to muscarinic receptors. In order to break a bronchospasm, deepen the anesthetic.

[AnnieOaklyRN, BSN, RN, EMT-P]

Thanks Divegirl..