A nurse is caring for a child who is experiencing an acute asthma attack. Which of the following medications should the nurse administer first?

A. Pulmonary function test:

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) assess lung function by measuring airflow, lung volume, and gas exchange. While PFTs can provide valuable information about respiratory function, they are not specific to cystic fibrosis and may show abnormalities consistent with various respiratory conditions. However, PFTs are often performed in individuals with cystic fibrosis to monitor lung function over time and assess response to treatment. They are not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing cystic fibrosis.

B. Sweat chloride test:

This option is correct. The sweat chloride test is considered the most definitive diagnostic test for cystic fibrosis. It measures the concentration of chloride in sweat, which is typically elevated in individuals with cystic fibrosis due to defective chloride transport in sweat glands. A sweat chloride concentration above a certain threshold (usually ≥60 mmol/L) is diagnostic of cystic fibrosis, particularly when confirmed with repeat testing.

C. Stool fat content analysis:

Stool fat content analysis evaluates fat absorption and fecal fat excretion, which may be impaired in individuals with cystic fibrosis due to pancreatic insufficiency. However, while stool fat content analysis can provide supportive evidence of malabsorption in cystic fibrosis, it is not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing the condition. Stool fat content analysis is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests to assess pancreatic function and nutritional status in individuals with cystic fibrosis.

D. Sputum culture:

Sputum culture involves culturing respiratory secretions to identify bacterial pathogens, which can be useful for diagnosing respiratory infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis. However, sputum culture is not specific to cystic fibrosis and may show similar findings in other respiratory conditions. While respiratory cultures are important for guiding treatment in cystic fibrosis, they are not considered the most definitive test for diagnosing the condition.

A. Cranberry juice

Cranberry juice may be too acidic and could irritate the surgical site. It's best to avoid acidic beverages immediately following a tonsillectomy.

B. Ice-cream

This option is suitable. Ice-cream is cold and soothing, and it can help numb the throat, providing relief from discomfort after a tonsillectomy. However, it's essential to ensure that the ice-cream is not too cold to avoid causing discomfort.

C. Hot tea

Hot tea is not recommended immediately following a tonsillectomy. Hot liquids can irritate the surgical site and may cause discomfort. It's best to avoid hot beverages until the throat has had time to heal.

D. Italian ice

Italian ice is a frozen dessert similar to a slushy, and it can be a suitable option after a tonsillectomy. Like ice-cream, Italian ice is cold and can help numb the throat, providing relief from discomfort.