Author Question: Which precaution about zanamivir (Relenza) therapy does the nurse teach a patient who also uses a ... (Read 46 times)

abc · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Which precaution about zanamivir (Relenza) therapy does the nurse teach a patient who also uses a bronchodilator for asthma control?

a. Drink at least 3 L of water daily while using this drug.
b. Use the bronchodilator 15 minutes before taking the zanamivir.
c. Avoid taking the zanamivir within 2 hours of using the bronchodilator.
d. Take your pulse daily while on this drug because when taken with a bronchodi-lator heart rhythm problems are common.

Question 2

A patient who is prescribed promethazine (Phenergan) currently has a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute. What is the nurse's best action?

a. Place the patient on oxygen at 2 L per nasal cannula.
b. Document this as an expected side effect of the drug.
c. Hold the drug and notify the prescriber.
d. Raise the head of the bed 90 degrees.

canderson530 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Zanamivir is an inhalation drug. When a patient also takes a bronchodilator for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or any other airway problem, the manufacturer recommends using the bronchodilator at least 5 minutes before zanamivir to ensure a wider airway and improved inhalation of the antiviral drug.

Answer to Question 2

C
Respiratory depression (decreased drive for breathing) is a life-threatening adverse effect that can occur with several antiemetic drugs, including promethazine. The nurse must be sure to monitor the patient's respiratory rate after administering this drug and report a decrease in respi-ratory rate to the prescriber. The drug should be held because a respiratory rate of 8 breaths per minute is very low.