A client is being discharged with a cromolyn (Intal) inhaler to assist in the treatment of asthma. The nurse should include which information in the discharge teaching for this medication?
Use this inhaler 15 minutes prior to physical activity
Tachycardia is an adverse effect associated with this medication
This medication should not be discontinued abruptly.
Injections are required weekly to properly prevent asthma attacks.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Use this inhaler 15 minutes prior to physical activity: This is the correct recommendation for cromolyn. It is a mast cell stabilizer that helps prevent asthma symptoms by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators. Using it before physical activity can help minimize exercise-induced bronchospasm.
B. Tachycardia is an adverse effect associated with this medication: This statement is misleading. Cromolyn is not typically associated with tachycardia as an adverse effect. Unlike bronchodilators, which can cause increased heart rate, cromolyn primarily works to stabilize mast cells and has a different side effect profile.
C. This medication should not be discontinued abruptly: While it is generally good practice to consult a healthcare provider before stopping any asthma medication, cromolyn does not have a significant risk of withdrawal symptoms like corticosteroids might. It is more important to maintain regular use for effectiveness rather than fear abrupt discontinuation.
D. Injections are required weekly to properly prevent asthma attacks: This statement is incorrect. Cromolyn is administered via inhalation, not by injection, and does not require weekly injections. Patients should use the inhaler as prescribed, typically several times a day, depending on their individual treatment plan.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A) Alternative usage includes being the reversal agent for acetaminophen overdoses: Acetylcysteine is indeed used as an antidote for acetaminophen toxicity. It helps replenish glutathione levels in the liver, thus protecting it from damage caused by the overdose. This is a well-established use of the medication.
B) This medication should not be used for clients with productive coughs: This statement is not correct. Acetylcysteine is used to help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel from the lungs. It can be beneficial for clients with productive coughs, as it aids in reducing excessive respiratory secretions.
C) This medication has a foul smell resembling "rotten eggs": Acetylcysteine has a characteristic odor that is often described as similar to rotten eggs due to the presence of sulfur in its chemical structure. This can be an important consideration for patients when administering the medication.
D) This medication can be utilized in clients with cystic fibrosis. This medication falls under the classification of "mucolytic": Acetylcysteine is classified as a mucolytic agent, making it useful for patients with conditions like cystic fibrosis, where thick mucus production is a significant issue. It helps to decrease the viscosity of secretions, facilitating easier clearance.
E) This medication has anticholinergic properties and side effects: This statement is incorrect. Acetylcysteine does not possess anticholinergic properties. Anticholinergic medications typically reduce secretions and are used for different indications, whereas acetylcysteine serves to increase mucus clearance, not decrease it.
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E","F"]
Explanation
A) Ipratropium is the drug of choice for acute asthma exacerbations: This statement is incorrect. While ipratropium is used in the management of asthma, it is not the first-line treatment for acute exacerbations. Short-acting beta-agonists, such as albuterol, are the preferred choice for rapid relief during an acute asthma attack due to their quick onset of action.
B) Mechanism of action includes blocking acetylcholine receptors in the airway: This statement is accurate. Ipratropium is an anticholinergic agent that works by blocking acetylcholine receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle. This action leads to bronchodilation and helps to decrease mucus production, making it effective for managing airway constriction.
C) Mechanism of action includes antagonizing histamine receptors of the upper airway: This statement is incorrect. Ipratropium does not act on histamine receptors; rather, it specifically targets acetylcholine receptors. Antihistamines are the medications that block histamine receptors, primarily used for allergic reactions and rhinitis, but not for bronchodilation in asthma.
D) Client's who are allergic to soybean should avoid taking ipratropium: This statement is true. Ipratropium bromide may contain soy lecithin, which can pose a risk for patients with soybean allergies. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare providers to assess a patient’s allergy history before prescribing this medication.
E) Urinary retention is a side effect of Ipratropium bromide: This is correct. Anticholinergic medications, including ipratropium, can lead to urinary retention as a side effect due to their action of inhibiting acetylcholine, which plays a role in bladder function. Patients should be monitored for this side effect, especially if they have a history of urinary issues.
F) Ipratropium (Atrovent) is a medication for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): This statement is accurate. Ipratropium is indicated for both asthma and COPD management, as it helps to relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow. It is often used as an adjunct therapy in combination with other bronchodilators for better management of respiratory conditions.