A pregnant patient asks the nurse if she can take antihistamines for seasonal allergies during her pregnancy. What will the nurse tell the patient?

A medication error refers to any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm. In this case, the nurse administering a double dose of medication due to a failure to cut the pill in half is a medication error. It involves the administration of an incorrect dose, which can potentially result in harm or adverse effects for the patient.

The other situations mentioned do not necessarily indicate medication errors. A patient developing hives after starting an IV antibiotic could have an allergic reaction, and appropriate actions should be taken to address the reaction. A patient complaining of severe pain still present after receiving pain medication may require further assessment and intervention to manage their pain effectively. A patient refusing her morning medication is not a medication error but rather a patient's right to refuse treatment, and appropriate documentation and communication should be done in such situations.

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.