A patient is in an urgent care center with an acute asthma attack. The nurse expects which medication will be used for initial treatment.
A long-acting beta2 agonist such as salmeterol (Serevent)
A short-acting (rapid-acting) beta2 agonist such as Albuterol (Proventil)
A corticosteroid such as fluticasone (Flovent)
An anticholinergic such as ipratropium (Atrovent)
The Correct Answer is B
During an acute asthma attack, the airways become narrowed and inflamed, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Short-acting beta2 agonists like Albuterol are the first-line medication for relieving acute asthma symptoms. They work by quickly relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, resulting in bronchodilation and improved airflow. Albuterol provides rapid relief of symptoms and is often administered via inhalation.
A. Long-acting beta2 agonists (e.g., salmeterol) are typically used as maintenance therapy for long-term control of asthma symptoms, rather than for immediate relief during an acute attack.
C. Corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone) are anti-inflammatory medications that are often prescribed for asthma, but they are more commonly used as part of a long-term management plan and may not provide immediate relief during an acute attack.
D. Anticholinergics (e.g., ipratropium) are sometimes used in combination with short-acting beta2 agonists for acute asthma exacerbations, but they are not typically the initial treatment choice for an acute asthma attack.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Nasal glucocorticoids are commonly used to treat allergic rhinitis and work by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. However, one of the potential side effects of using these medications is the drying of the nasal mucosa, which can lead to discomfort and occasional nosebleeds. It is important for clients to be aware of this side effect and to take appropriate measures to mitigate it, such as using a humidifier, staying hydrated, and gently applying a saline nasal spray if needed.
Rhinorrhea refers to a runny nose and is not a common side effect of fluticasone or other nasal glucocorticoids. Dizziness and hallucinations are also not typical side effects associated with the use of fluticasone. However, it is important to note that individual responses to medications can vary, and if a client experiences any unusual or concerning side effects while taking fluticasone, they should consult their healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Status asthmaticus is a severe and potentially life-threatening asthma exacerbation that does not respond well to usual treatment measures. The primary goal in managing status asthmaticus is to relieve the bronchospasm and improve airflow. Short-acting 62-agonists, such as albuterol, are bronchodilators that work quickly to relax the smooth muscles of the airways, providing immediate relief of bronchospasm.
While determining the cause of the acute exacerbation and obtaining a peak flow reading are important aspects of asthma management, in the case of status asthmaticus, the immediate priority is to administer a bronchodilator to alleviate the severe symptoms and improve the child's breathing. Once the acute symptoms are addressed, further assessment and interventions can be carried out to identify the cause and monitor the child's condition.
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