Which of the following risk factors is associated with a client having a higher risk of experiencing status asthmaticus?

Choice A Reason:

Sedatives do not impact the risk of obstructive sleep apnea: This statement is incorrect. Sedatives, particularly those that cause muscle relaxation or depress the central nervous system, can exacerbate obstructive sleep apnea by further relaxing the muscles of the upper airway, leading to increased airway collapse during sleep.

Choice B Reason:

CPAP compliance enhances quality of sleep is correct. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Compliance with CPAP therapy, meaning consistent and proper use of the CPAP device during sleep, is essential for effectively managing sleep apnea and improving sleep quality.

Choice C Reason:

Alcohol does not affect the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. This statement is incorrect. Alcohol consumption can worsen obstructive sleep apnea by promoting muscle relaxation in the upper airway, leading to increased airway collapse and more frequent episodes of apnea during sleep.

Choice D Reason:

Obesity increases the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. This statement is correct. Obesity is a significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea. Excess fat tissue around the neck can increase the likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep, contributing to the development or worsening of sleep apnea.

Choice E Reason:

Positional therapy enhances client comfort is correct. Positional therapy involves strategies to encourage sleeping in positions that minimize the severity of obstructive sleep apnea, particularly for individuals with positional OSA (where apnea events are primarily or significantly worse when sleeping in specific positions, such as supine). This statement is correct.

Choice F Reason:

Smoking increases the risk of obstructive sleep apnea: This statement is correct. Smoking can increase the risk of obstructive sleep apnea due to its effects on upper airway inflammation and respiratory function. Smoking cessation can be beneficial in managing sleep apnea and improving overall health.

Choice A Reason:

Bladder spasms are not commonly reported as adverse effects of methylprednisolone. However, bladder dysfunction can occur in individuals with multiple sclerosis due to the disease process itself, but it is not specifically related to corticosteroid therapy.

Choice B Reason:

Hypotension is not a common adverse effect of methylprednisolone. In fact, corticosteroids can often lead to fluid retention and sodium retention, which can contribute to hypertension rather than hypotension.

Choice C Reason:

Delayed wound healing is correct. Corticosteroids can impair the body's ability to heal wounds by suppressing the inflammatory response and collagen synthesis. Therefore, clients receiving methylprednisolone may experience delayed wound healing, which can be problematic, especially in individuals with pre-existing wounds or undergoing surgical procedures.

Choice D Reason:

Hirsutism (excessive hair growth, especially in women) can occur with long-term corticosteroid use due to the effect of steroids on hair follicles. It is a possible adverse effect of methylprednisolone.

Choice E Reason:

Hyperglycemia is correct. Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis, reducing glucose uptake by tissues, and inducing insulin resistance. Clients receiving methylprednisolone may develop hyperglycemia, which can be particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.