Mental Health Technician Certification (AMCA) Practice Test

What should be monitored in patients taking beta blockers for anxiety disorders?

1. Blood pressure

2. Heart rate

3. Weight

4. Respiratory rate

The correct answer is: Heart rate

Monitoring heart rate in patients taking beta blockers for anxiety disorders is crucial due to the pharmacological effects of these medications. Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the beta-adrenergic receptors, which leads to a decrease in heart rate and has a calming effect on the body's physical response to anxiety. In patients with anxiety, one of the common physical symptoms is an increased heart rate, which may exacerbate feelings of panic or anxiety. By monitoring heart rate, mental health technicians and healthcare providers can assess the effectiveness of the beta blocker in managing these symptoms. A significant change in heart rate could indicate a need for dosage adjustment or further evaluation of the patient's response to treatment. While blood pressure is also important to monitor, especially since beta blockers can affect it, heart rate is particularly significant concerning the symptoms of anxiety disorders and the intended effects of the medication. Weight and respiratory rate, while important in some contexts, are not primary indicators of the efficacy of beta blockers in managing anxiety symptoms.