A 25-year-old patient with a history of asthma presents to the emergency department with severe shortness of breath, wheezing, and accessory muscle use. Despite initial treatment with albuterol and oxygen, the patient's condition has not improved. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in the management of this patient's asthma exacerbation?
Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics
Increase the frequency of albuterol nebulizations
Administer intravenous magnesium sulfate
Administer subcutaneous epinephrine
The Correct Answer is C
A. Antibiotics are not indicated in the treatment of an asthma exacerbation unless there is a confirmed bacterial infection, which is not suggested here.
B. Increasing the frequency of albuterol nebulizations may be appropriate, but more aggressive interventions are required, as the patient has not improved with initial treatment.
C. Intravenous magnesium sulfate is often used in severe asthma exacerbations to help relax the muscles around the airways, making it a more appropriate next step for this patient.
D. Subcutaneous epinephrine can be used for anaphylaxis but is not the first-line treatment for asthma exacerbations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Peptic ulcer disease is possible, but the patient's NSAID use and positive H. pylori antibodies suggest a more specific cause related to gastritis.
B. Acute gastritis due to NSAID use is likely since NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of ulcers.
C. Functional dyspepsia is less likely given the presence of H. pylori antibodies, which typically indicate an active infection.
D. Chronic gastritis due to Helicobacter pylori infection is the most likely diagnosis, especially with the combination of NSAID use and positive H. pylori antibodies.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administering feeding solution directly from the refrigerator can cause discomfort to the patient and increase the risk of gastric upset.
B. Flushing the tube with cold water is not appropriate, as it may irritate the stomach and cause discomfort.
C. Positioning the patient supine at 30 degrees is unsafe, as it increases the risk of aspiration. The patient should be at a higher angle, typically 30-45 degrees.
D. Verifying the pH of gastric aspirate is crucial to ensure the feeding tube is in the correct position and to prevent aspiration of feeding material into the lungs.
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