Reversal agents to counteract muscle relaxation: nursing considerations

Advances in pharmacology and technology over the last decade have fostered expanded use of muscle relaxants in critical care units and emergency departments. The neuromuscular blockade facilitated by these agents may be reversed pharmacologically, or may be spontaneously reversed endogenously. To ensure appropriate patient management, the critical care nurse, clinical nurse specialist, and acute care nurse practitioner must have a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology of neuromuscular blockade and reversal, the medications involved in this process, and the critical patient assessment and management skills necessary to assure a positive patient outcome.