An adult patient is admitted for an asthma attack. Which assessment obtained by the nurse would support that beta2 adrenergic agonist albuterol was effective?
Decrease in wheezing present on auscultation
Respiratory rate increased to 38 breaths/min
Sputum production is clear and watery
Use of neck muscles
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Decrease in wheezing present on auscultation indicates that albuterol was effective. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways and reduces the airway resistance. This improves the airflow and reduces the wheezing sound that is caused by the turbulent flow of air through the narrowed airways.
Choice B reason: Respiratory rate increased to 38 breaths/min does not indicate that albuterol was effective. It indicates that the patient is still experiencing respiratory distress and hypoxia. The normal respiratory rate for adults is 12 to 20 breaths/min. A high respiratory rate can also be a side effect of albuterol, as it can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and increase the heart rate and blood pressure.
Choice C reason: Sputum production is clear and watery does not indicate that albuterol was effective. It indicates that the patient has a productive cough and is expelling mucus from the lungs. Sputum production is not directly affected by albuterol, as it does not have anti-inflammatory or mucolytic properties.
Choice D reason: Use of neck muscles does not indicate that albuterol was effective. It indicates that the patient is using accessory muscles to breathe and is exerting more effort to inhale. This is a sign of severe respiratory distress and airway obstruction. Albuterol should relieve the bronchospasm and reduce the need for accessory muscle use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: The patient should not use the glucocorticoid as needed when symptoms flare. The glucocorticoid is a long-term controller medication that reduces inflammation and prevents exacerbations of COPD. It should be used regularly as prescribed, not as a rescue medication.
Choice B reason: The patient does not need to use the beta2-adrenergic agonist drug daily even when they don't have any symptoms. The beta2-adrenergic agonist is a short-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways and improves airflow. It should be used as needed for relief of acute symptoms, not as a maintenance medication.
Choice C reason: The beta2-adrenergic agonist does not suppress the synthesis of inflammatory mediators. The beta2-adrenergic agonist is a bronchodilator that acts on the beta2 receptors of the airways and causes relaxation of the smooth muscles. It does not have any anti-inflammatory effects.
Choice D reason: The glucocorticoid is used as prophylaxis to prevent exacerbations every day. This is the correct statement that indicates understanding of this medication regimen. The glucocorticoid is a long-term controller medication that reduces inflammation and prevents exacerbations of COPD. It should be used regularly as prescribed, along with the beta2-adrenergic agonist as needed for relief of acute symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Abnormally dilated arteries and veins are not a result of atherosclerosis. They are a sign of aneurysms or varicose veins, which are caused by different factors.
Choice B reason: Arterial wall thinning and weakening are not a result of atherosclerosis. They are a sign of arteriosclerosis, which is a general term for the loss of elasticity and flexibility of the arteries.
Choice C reason: Autonomic nervous system imbalances are not a result of atherosclerosis. They are a sign of dysautonomia, which is a disorder of the nervous system that affects the regulation of vital functions.
Choice D reason: Abnormal thickening and hardening of vessel walls are a result of atherosclerosis. They are caused by the accumulation of plaque, which is composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, calcium, and other materials.
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