Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

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Which drug used during surgery is known to cause muscle fasciculations or contractions?

Atropine
Propofol
Succinylcholine
Fentanyl

The correct answer is: Succinylcholine

Succinylcholine is a neuromuscular blocking agent commonly used during surgical procedures for its rapid onset and short duration of action. One of its notable side effects is the induction of muscle fasciculations, which are involuntary, rapid contractions of muscle fibers. This occurs due to its mechanism of action as a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker, mimicking the action of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction and causing initial stimulation of the muscle before paralysis sets in. The other medications listed do not share this characteristic. Atropine primarily serves as an anticholinergic agent to reduce secretions and prevent bradycardia. Propofol is an anesthetic agent known for its sedative properties, but it does not lead to muscle contractions. Fentanyl is an opioid analgesic that is used for pain control during surgery and does not cause muscle twitching or fasciculations. Understanding the actions and effects of these medications is crucial in the field of surgical nursing and anesthesia, particularly when anticipating the effects of medications administered during procedures.