The nurse is educating student nurses on the difference between the upper and lower respiratory tract. Which medications are primarily used for upper respiratory conditions? (Select All that Apply.)
Decongestants
H2 Antagonist
H1 Antagonist
Long-Acting Beta Agonist (LABA)
Short Acting Beta agonist (SABA)
Mast Cell Stabilizers
Correct Answer : A,C
A) Decongestants: These medications are primarily used to relieve nasal congestion associated with upper respiratory conditions such as allergic rhinitis and the common cold. They work by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby reducing swelling and congestion. Common examples include pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine.
B) H2 Antagonist: H2 antagonists are primarily used to reduce gastric acid secretion and treat conditions such as peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). They are not indicated for upper respiratory conditions, so this option does not apply.
C) H1 Antagonist: H1 antagonists, or antihistamines, are used to alleviate symptoms of allergies, hay fever, and other upper respiratory conditions by blocking the effects of histamine. This class includes both first-generation antihistamines (like diphenhydramine) and second-generation antihistamines (like cetirizine), making them relevant for upper respiratory issues.
D) Long-Acting Beta Agonist (LABA): LABAs are primarily used for the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), targeting the lower respiratory tract. They are not typically used for upper respiratory conditions, so this option does not apply.
E) Short Acting Beta Agonist (SABA): SABAs, such as albuterol, are primarily used for acute asthma attacks and bronchospasm in conditions like COPD. They act on the lower respiratory tract and are not indicated for upper respiratory conditions.
F) Mast Cell Stabilizers: These medications are used to prevent allergic reactions and asthma symptoms by stabilizing mast cells and preventing the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. While they may have a role in allergic rhinitis, they are not the primary treatment for upper respiratory tract conditions, making this option less applicable compared to decongestants and H1 antagonists.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Ipratropium bromide: While ipratropium is used to manage bronchospasm, it is typically not the first choice for acute asthma attacks. It has a slower onset of action compared to short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol and is generally used as an adjunct therapy rather than for immediate relief.
B) Albuterol: This medication is a short-acting beta-agonist that provides rapid relief of bronchospasm during an acute asthma attack. It works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it the preferred first-line treatment for quick relief in asthma exacerbations.
C) Salmeterol: This medication is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) used for long-term control of asthma symptoms, not for immediate relief. It has a delayed onset of action and should not be used as a rescue medication during an acute attack, as it may take longer to provide effects.
D) Budesonide: This is an inhaled corticosteroid that helps in controlling chronic inflammation associated with asthma. While important for long-term management, it is not effective for the rapid relief of acute symptoms and should not be used during an asthma attack.
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