A client is curious about the basic nature of asthma. How should the nurse explain asthma?

A) Incorrect. Spacers can be beneficial for both children and adults, depending on their ability to use the inhaler effectively.

B) Incorrect. A spacer does not deliver medication directly into the bloodstream but optimizes delivery to the lungs.

C) Correct. Using a spacer reduces the risk of side effects, such as oral thrush, associated with some inhaled medications by ensuring more targeted delivery to the lungs.

D) Incorrect. Spacers are designed to make inhalers easier to use correctly, not more challenging.

A) Incorrect. Intermittent shortness of breath during physical activity is common in asthma but does not necessarily indicate a severe attack.

B) Incorrect. Occasional coughing and wheezing at night can be part of asthma but do not necessarily signal a severe attack.

C) Correct. Persistent shortness of breath, especially when present at rest, is a potential indicator of a severe asthma attack and should be taken seriously.

D) Incorrect. Mild chest tightness after exposure to allergens is a common symptom of asthma but may not necessarily indicate a severe attack.