A nurse is preparing to administer acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) to a client with excessive respiratory secretions. Which of the following statements are correct regarding acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) (Select All that Apply.)
alternative usage includes being the reversal agent for acetaminophen overdoses.
This medication should not be used for clients with productive coughs.
This medication has a foul smell resembling "rotten eggs"
This medication can be utilized in client's with cystic fibrosis. This medication falls under the classification of "mucoyltic".
This medication has anticholinergic properties and side effects
Correct Answer : A,C,D
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.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Make sure to use this each time I feel an asthma attack coming on": This statement indicates a need for further education. LABAs are not intended for immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms or attacks; they are designed for long-term control and prevention of symptoms. Clients should use a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) for quick relief during an asthma attack, not a LABA.
B. "I know that these drugs can sometimes make my heart beat faster": This statement reflects an understanding of a potential side effect of LABAs. Increased heart rate is a known side effect, and it is important for clients to be aware of this possibility.
C. "I've heard that this drug sometimes gets less effective over time": This statement is accurate. Tolerance can develop with LABA use, and clients should be informed about this possibility to monitor their symptoms and report any changes to their healthcare provider.
D. "I've heard that this drug is particularly good at preventing asthma attacks during exercise": This statement is correct. LABAs can be beneficial for preventing exercise-induced bronchospasm when used as part of a regular asthma management plan, and clients should understand this use.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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.