A nurse is preparing to administer albuterol syrup 1.6 mg PO tid. Available is albuterol 2 mg/5mL. How many mL should the nurse administer per dose? (Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

A. Use of Passy Muir speaking valve: While this is an important aspect of communication for a client who has undergone a laryngectomy, it is not the highest priority at the time of discharge. The use of the speaking valve can be addressed after ensuring that the client is equipped to handle immediate safety concerns and emergencies related to their condition.
B. Phone number of healthcare provider to report complications: Providing the client with contact information for their healthcare provider is essential for ongoing support and to address any concerns that may arise after discharge. However, this information is secondary to ensuring the client can effectively communicate their condition and limitations, particularly in an emergency situation.
C. Emergency personal identification that client is unable to speak: This is the highest priority for discharge teaching because it directly addresses the client’s safety. Having emergency identification is crucial for informing healthcare providers and first responders about the client's inability to speak, especially in situations where communication may be vital for receiving appropriate care. Ensuring that the client can communicate their condition in emergencies takes precedence over other aspects of post-operative care.
D. Ability to perform tracheostomy care: While it is important for the client to be educated on tracheostomy care to ensure ongoing health and safety, this teaching can be considered after addressing immediate safety needs. The ability to care for the tracheostomy is vital but does not take priority over having emergency identification that communicates the client’s needs to others who may not be aware of their condition.

A. The medication will open the airways: Albuterol is a bronchodilator that works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, leading to dilation and increased airflow. This action helps to relieve symptoms of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), making it easier for the client to breathe. The nurse should emphasize that opening the airways is a primary function of albuterol, providing immediate relief during breathing difficulties.
B. The medication will stimulate the flow of mucus: Albuterol does not primarily stimulate mucus production; rather, its main role is to relax bronchial smooth muscle and open the airways. While effective airway management may lead to improved mucus clearance due to enhanced airflow, albuterol itself does not directly promote mucus secretion. Thus, this statement does not accurately describe the action of the medication.
C. The medication will decrease coughing episodes: By opening the airways and improving airflow, albuterol can help reduce coughing episodes associated with bronchospasm or airway constriction. When the airways are less constricted, the client is less likely to experience the irritative cough often seen in respiratory conditions like asthma. This is an important point for the nurse to convey to help the client understand the medication's benefits.
D. The medication will prevent wheezing: Albuterol can help prevent or relieve wheezing by relaxing the bronchial muscles and facilitating better airflow. Wheezing often occurs when the airways are narrowed or constricted, and by using albuterol, the client can experience fewer wheezing episodes during respiratory distress. The nurse should explain this aspect to reinforce the medication's role in managing asthma or COPD symptoms.
E. The medication will reduce inflammation: Albuterol is not an anti-inflammatory medication; it primarily functions as a bronchodilator. While it can improve breathing by relaxing airway muscles, it does not directly target inflammation in the airways. Inhaled corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medications are typically used to address inflammation. Therefore, this response does not accurately reflect the action of albuterol.