A nurse is admitting a client with an asthma exacerbation. Which ...

[swpotter12]

A nurse is admitting a client with an asthma exacerbation. Which drug should the nurse be prepared to administer to relieve an acute asthma episode?
 
  a. Systemic corticosteroids
  b. Inhaled corticosteroids
  c. Leukotriene blockers
  d. Long-acting bronchodilators

Question 2

Which response indicates that a school-age child understands the interpretation of peak flowmeter results?
 
  a. When my peak flow is in the green zone, I need more medication..
  b. The red zone means my peak flow is 80 to 100..
  c. When my peak flow is in the yellow zone, I might need to take more medicine..
  d. The yellow zone means I need to take albuterol right away..

[xoxo123]

Answer to Question 1

A
Systemic corticosteroids decrease airway inflammation in an acute asthma attack. They are given for short burst courses of 5 to 7 days. Inhaled corticosteroids are used for long-term, routine control of asthma. Leukotriene blockers diminish the mediator action of leukotrienes and are used for long-term, routine control of asthma in children older than 12 years. A long-acting bronchodilator would not relieve acute symptoms.

Answer to Question 2

C
The yellow zone indicates caution. The child's peak flow is 50 to 80 of his personal best. A temporary increase in medication may be indicated. The green zone indicates all clear. There are no asthma symptoms present. The child's exhalation is 80 to 100 of his personal best. The red zone is interpreted as a medical alert. The child's exhalation is below 50 of his personal best. The child should use a bronchodilator immediately. The child would take an immediate bronchodilator if his peak flow is in the red zone.