A 25-year-old patient with a history of asthma presents to the emergency department with severe shortness of breath, wheezing, and accessory muscle use. Despite initial treatment with albuterol and oxygen, the patient's condition has not improved. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient's asthma exacerbation?
Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics
Increase the frequency of albuterol nebulizations
Administer intravenous magnesium sulfate
Administer subcutaneous epinephrine
The Correct Answer is C
A. Antibiotics are not indicated in the treatment of an asthma exacerbation unless there is a confirmed bacterial infection, which is not suggested here.
B. Increasing the frequency of albuterol nebulizations may be appropriate, but more aggressive interventions are required, as the patient has not improved with initial treatment.
C. Intravenous magnesium sulfate is often used in severe asthma exacerbations to help relax the muscles around the airways, making it a more appropriate next step for this patient.
D. Subcutaneous epinephrine can be used for anaphylaxis but is not the first-line treatment for asthma exacerbations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Paresthesia, or abnormal sensations such as tingling or numbness, is a common symptom in patients with multiple sclerosis due to nerve damage.
B. Nausea and vomiting are not typical symptoms of multiple sclerosis but may occur in specific cases due to other complications.
C. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can occur in multiple sclerosis as a result of nerve damage affecting the muscles involved in swallowing.
D. Spasticity, or muscle stiffness, is common in multiple sclerosis due to damage to the nerve pathways that control muscle movement.
E. Vertigo, or dizziness, is a frequent symptom of multiple sclerosis due to lesions in the brainstem affecting balance.
Correct Answer is ["320"]
Explanation
Net fluid balance = Total intake - Total output
Rationale:
Total intake:
IV fluids: 1,000 mL
Antibiotic infusion: 250 mL
Oral intake: 3 cups x 240 mL = 720 mL
Total intake = 1,000 + 250 + 720 = 1,970 mL Total output:
Urine: 1,200 mL
Vomiting: 300 mL Wound drainage: 150 mL
Total output = 1,200 + 300 + 150 = 1,650 mL
Net fluid balance = 1,970 mL - 1,650 mL = +320 mL
The patient has a positive fluid balance of 320 mL.
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