Several patients have been prescribed inhalation medications. The ...

[KimWrice]

Several patients have been prescribed inhalation medications. The nurse is aware that a spacer will be beneficial for which patient?
 
  a. A young child using a dry powder inhaler
  b. An elderly patient who uses a metered-dose inhaler
  c. A teenager who has just started using a nebulizer
  d. A young child who needs medication several times per day

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a mother how to administer nasal drops to her infant. What should be included in the teaching plan?
 
  a. Over-the-counter nasal drops can be saved and used later.
  b. Nasal decongestants are safe and have no serious side effects.
  c. Infants should receive nose drops 20 to 30 minutes before feedings.
  d. Infants are mouth breathers, so nasal medications are well tolerated.

[mohan]

Answer to Question 1

B
Because use of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) requires coordination during the breathing cycle, many patients spray only the back of their throat and fail to receive a full dose. The inhaler must be depressed to expel medication just as the patient inhales. This ensures that the medication reaches the lower airways. Poor coordination can be solved by the use of spacer devices. Coordination is not necessary with dry powder inhalers or nebulizers. The use of a spacer is not dependent on the schedule of administration.

Answer to Question 2

C
Infants are nose breathers, and the possible congestion caused by nasal medications may inhibit their sucking. Administer nose drops 20 to 30 minutes before feedings. Over-the-counter nasal sprays or nose drops should be used for only one illness; bottles become easily contaminated with bacteria. Nasal decongestants can enter the systemic circulation by way of the nasal mucosa or the gastrointestinal tract if swallowed, causing restlessness, nervousness, tremors, or insomnia in some patients. Long-term use can worsen nasal congestion through a rebound effect.