What antidote should a nurse have available for terbutaline (Brethine) side effects?

The preferred antidote for the side effects of terbutaline, a beta-agonist often used in labor management, is propranolol. Terbutaline can lead to issues such as tachycardia and other cardiovascular effects due to its stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors. Propranolol, being a non-selective beta-blocker, can counteract these effects effectively by blocking the action of beta-adrenergic stimulation in the heart, thus reducing heart rate and other related symptoms.

Understanding the mechanism of action is crucial: while terbutaline activates the beta receptors, propranolol inhibits them, providing a balance in cases where terbutaline's side effects become problematic. The other options do have beta-blocking effects but differ in selectivity, action, and clinical outcomes associated with terbutaline’s specific side effects. Hence, propranolol stands out as the most appropriate choice in managing the adverse reactions to terbutaline.