Following cardiac surgery, a patient suddenly experiences a drop in cardiac function and blood pressure. The patient may be developing heart failure. What drugs would most likely be indicated in this situation? What autonomic receptor, in particular, needs to be acted upon? Should it be stimulated or blocked?
a) Drugs such as beta-blockers may be indicated. The adrenergic receptor needs to be stimulated.
b) Drugs such as alpha-blockers may be indicated. The cholinergic receptor needs to be blocked.
c) Drugs such as diuretics and inotropic agents may be indicated. The adrenergic receptor needs to be stimulated.
d) Drugs such as vasodilators may be indicated. The adrenergic receptor needs to be blocked.