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.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Montelukast (Singulair): This medication is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used to manage asthma and allergic rhinitis. It does not contain soy or soy-derived ingredients, making it a safe option for a client with a soybean allergy. There are no known contraindications related to soy in this medication.
B) Methylprednisolone (Solumedrol): This is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation. It is not contraindicated for clients with a soybean allergy, as it does not contain soy-derived components. The medication primarily poses risks related to long-term use, but not specifically regarding soybean allergies.
C) Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent): This medication is an anticholinergic used to relieve bronchospasm. Ipratropium bromide is formulated with soy lecithin, which is derived from soybeans. Therefore, it is contraindicated for clients with a known allergy to soybeans, as it may trigger an allergic reaction.
D) Albuterol (Ventolin): This medication is a short-acting beta-agonist used for quick relief of bronchospasm. It does not contain any soy components and is generally safe for patients with soybean allergies. While there may be other considerations for its use, the allergy to soy is not a concern with this medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Palpitations: While palpitations can be concerning for many medications, they are not a commonly reported side effect of dextromethorphan. This medication primarily acts as a cough suppressant and does not typically have cardiovascular effects that would lead to palpitations. Therefore, clients should not primarily monitor for this side effect when taking dextromethorphan.
B) Hypertension: Dextromethorphan is not generally associated with causing hypertension. Its main action is to suppress the cough reflex, and it does not typically influence blood pressure levels. Patients taking this medication should focus on other side effects rather than worrying about hypertension.
C) Ataxia: Ataxia, or impaired coordination, is a notable adverse effect associated with dextromethorphan, especially at higher doses or when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol. This side effect can lead to dizziness and increased risk of falls or accidents, making it important for clients to be aware of their coordination and alertness levels while on this medication. Advising patients to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if they experience ataxia is essential for their safety.
D) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is not a common adverse effect of dextromethorphan. The medication is primarily used for its antitussive properties, and gastrointestinal disturbances like diarrhea are generally not associated with its use. If patients experience gastrointestinal symptoms while taking this medication, they may need to consider other factors or medications that could be contributing to those symptoms.