A client with emphysema is reporting difficulty in breathing and exhibiting audible wheezing. The nurse administers albuterol as prescribed for the third time within the last 12 hours. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Irregular rapid heart rate.
Uncontrollable shaking.
Increased anxiety.
Throat irritation.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Irregular rapid heart rate (tachycardia) is a serious side effect of albuterol and warrants immediate intervention. Albuterol is a beta-2 agonist that can cause stimulation of beta-1 receptors in the heart, leading to tachycardia and potential arrhythmias.
Choice B rationale
Uncontrollable shaking (tremors) is a common side effect of albuterol due to its stimulation of beta-2 receptors in skeletal muscles. While uncomfortable, it is not typically life-threatening.
Choice C rationale
Increased anxiety can occur with albuterol use due to its stimulant effects on the central nervous system. However, it is not as immediately dangerous as tachycardia.
Choice D rationale
Throat irritation is a minor side effect of albuterol and does not require immediate intervention.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tiotropium is a long-acting bronchodilator used daily to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. This medication is not intended for immediate relief of acute symptoms but for long-term control of COPD1.
Choice B rationale
Using another inhaler in between uses of tiotropium is not necessary unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Tiotropium is meant to be used daily, and other inhalers may be prescribed for different purposes, such as rescue inhalers for sudden symptoms.
Choice C rationale
While tiotropium can help improve breathing and reduce symptoms over time, it is not specifically indicated to reduce the thickness of sputum. Other medications or treatments may be needed to address sputum consistency.
Choice D rationale
Tiotropium is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden shortness of breath. Rescue inhalers, such as albuterol, are designed for immediate relief of acute symptoms.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Irregular rapid heart rate (tachycardia) is a serious side effect of albuterol and warrants immediate intervention. Albuterol is a beta-2 agonist that can cause stimulation of beta-1 receptors in the heart, leading to tachycardia and potential arrhythmias.
Choice B rationale
Uncontrollable shaking (tremors) is a common side effect of albuterol due to its stimulation of beta-2 receptors in skeletal muscles. While uncomfortable, it is not typically life-threatening.
Choice C rationale
Increased anxiety can occur with albuterol use due to its stimulant effects on the central nervous system. However, it is not as immediately dangerous as tachycardia.
Choice D rationale
Throat irritation is a minor side effect of albuterol and does not require immediate intervention.