A nurse is teaching a client about taking an expectorant to treat a cough. The nurse should explain that this type of medication has which of the following actions?
Reduces inflammation
Dries mucous membranes
Stimulates secretions
Suppresses the urge to cough
The Correct Answer is C
Expectorants are medications that help to loosen and thin mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up and expel. They work by increasing the production of respiratory tract secretions, which helps to hydrate and thin the mucus, making it less sticky and easier to clear from the airways. By stimulating the production and secretion of mucus, expectorants promote coughing and facilitate the removal of excess mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system.
It's important to note that expectorants are primarily used for productive coughs (coughs that produce phlegm or mucus). If the cough is dry and non-productive, other types of cough suppressants or remedies may be more appropriate.
Regarding the other options:
Reduces inflammation: Expectorants do not have a direct effect on reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract. Anti-inflammatory medications such as glucocorticoids are typically used for reducing inflammation in conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Dries mucous membranes: Expectorants do not have a drying effect on mucous membranes. In fact, they work to increase the hydration and fluidity of respiratory secretions.
Suppresses the urge to cough: Expectorants do not suppress the urge to cough. They promote coughing by facilitating the clearance of mucus and phlegm from the airways. Cough suppressants, on the other hand, are medications used to relieve a dry, non-productive cough by suppressing the cough reflex.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Robitussin A-C contains codeine, which is an opioid antitussive that can have sedating effects. One of the major disadvantages of using this medication is the potential for drowsiness as a side effect. This can impair the client's ability to perform tasks that require alertness and can interfere with daily activities.
The other options listed are not the major disadvantage of antitussive therapy with Robitussin A-C:
The medication is irritating to the bronchial tree: Robitussin A-C is primarily used as an antitussive (cough suppressant) rather than for its effects on the bronchial tree. While it may have some mild irritant properties due to certain ingredients, it is not considered a major disadvantage of this medication.
The client may use the medication for 14 days: The duration of use for Robitussin A-C is typically determined by the healthcare provider based on the client's condition. While prolonged use of antitussives is generally not recommended without medical supervision, the duration of use is not considered the major disadvantage of this medication.
The medication is very expensive: The cost of medication can vary, and while cost may be a consideration for some individuals, it is not considered the major disadvantage of Robitussin
A-C specifically. The major disadvantage relates more to the potential for drowsiness caused by the medication.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
The nurse should make the following responses regarding how albuterol helps the client's breathing:
- The medication will open the airways.
- The medication will prevent wheezing.
Albuterol is a bronchodilator medication commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to the dilation of the bronchial tubes and increased airflow. This mechanism helps open up the airways and prevent or relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
The other options are incorrect because:
The medication will decrease coughing episodes: While albuterol may indirectly reduce coughing episodes by opening up the airways and improving airflow, its primary effect is on bronchodilation rather than directly targeting coughing.
The medication will stimulate the flow of mucus: Albuterol is not known to stimulate mucus flow. Instead, it focuses on bronchodilation to improve airflow in the lungs.
The medication will reduce inflammation: Albuterol is primarily a bronchodilator and does not have a significant anti-inflammatory effect. Other medications, such as corticosteroids, are typically used to address inflammation in respiratory conditions.
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