A patient newly diagnosed with asthma receives prescriptions for ...

[Zulu123]

A patient newly diagnosed with asthma receives prescriptions for an inhaled glucocorticoid and an inhaled beta2-adrenergic agonist. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of this medication regimen?
 
  a. I should use the glucocorticoid as needed when symptoms flare.
  b. I will need to use the beta2-adrenergic agonist drug daily.
  c. The beta2-adrenergic agonist suppresses the synthesis of inflammatory mediators.
  d. The glucocorticoid is used as prophylaxis to prevent exacerbations.

Question 2

A parent asks a nurse about growth suppression resulting from the use of an inhaled glucocorticoid in children. What will the nurse tell the parent?
 
  a. Growth may be slowed, but eventual adult height will not be reduced.
  b. The growth rate is not impaired, but overall height will be reduced.
  c. The growth rate slows while the drug is used but resumes when the drug is stopped.
  d. Long-term use of the drug results in a decrease in adult height.

[ambernicolefink]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Inhaled glucocorticoids are used daily to prevent acute attacks. They are not used PRN. The beta2-adrenergic agonist drugs should not be used daily; they are used to treat symptoms as needed. They do not suppress mediators of inflammation.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Glucocorticoids can slow growth in children and adolescents, but they do not reduce the eventual adult height. The growth rate will return to normal within a year, even when the drug is continued. Long-term use does not affect the eventual adult height.