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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Limit use of the drug to 3 days to prevent rebound nasal congestion: Oxymetazoline is a topical nasal decongestant that can lead to rebound congestion if used for more than three consecutive days. This condition, known as rhinitis medicamentosa, can worsen nasal congestion rather than alleviate it, making it crucial for clients to adhere to this guideline.
B. This drug may be used in maintenance treatment for asthma: Oxymetazoline is not indicated for the maintenance treatment of asthma. It is a nasal decongestant, primarily used for temporary relief of nasal congestion due to colds or allergies, and does not address the underlying inflammation in asthma.
C. This medication may take up to a week to see effects: In fact, oxymetazoline provides rapid relief of nasal congestion, typically within minutes of administration. Clients should expect to feel its effects much sooner rather than having to wait a week, which can lead to misuse or overuse of the medication.
D. Take this drug at bedtime because it may cause drowsiness: Oxymetazoline is not known to cause drowsiness; rather, it works as a decongestant. Patients are usually advised to use it during the day as needed, and it should not be specifically recommended for bedtime use
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.