A home care nurse is visiting a client with asthma who suddenly experiences an acute asthma attack. Which drug should the nurse prepare to administer?

A. Remove the intravenous catheter.

While removing the intravenous catheter is an important step, the immediate priority in cases of extravasation is to stop the infusion to prevent further leakage into the surrounding tissues. After stopping the infusion, the catheter can be carefully removed.

B. Pack the intravenous site with ice.

Cold compresses or ice packs are sometimes used in the management of certain types of extravasation to help reduce local swelling and vasoconstriction. However, the immediate priority is to stop the infusion (Choice C). After that, specific interventions, such as warm or cold compresses, may be employed based on the specific chemotherapy agent involved.

C. Stop the intravenous infusion.

This is the correct answer. Stopping the infusion is the first and most immediate action to prevent further leakage of the chemotherapy drug into the surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of tissue damage and adverse effects.

D. Attempt to aspirate residual medication from the patient’s vein.

While aspirating residual medication may be part of the overall management of extravasation, it is not the first action. The priority is to stop the infusion to prevent further damage. After stopping the infusion, the nurse may assess the situation and determine whether aspirating residual medication is appropriate.

A. Tiotropium (Spiriva) works by relaxing and dilating the bronchioles

Tiotropium is an anticholinergic bronchodilator used in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by blocking the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, leading to relaxation and dilation of the bronchioles, which helps improve airflow in the lungs.

B. If you experience dry mouth, stop taking the medication immediately

Dry mouth is a common side effect of tiotropium but is not a reason to stop taking the medication. The nurse may advise the patient to manage dry mouth with measures such as increased water intake or using sugar-free gum.

C. Use tiotropium (Spiriva) as needed for sudden breathing problems

Tiotropium is typically used as a maintenance medication for long-term control of COPD symptoms, not as a rescue medication for sudden breathing problems. Short-acting bronchodilators are often prescribed for acute symptom relief.

D. Remove the capsules from the packaging and place in your 7-day med box

Tiotropium is available in a dry powder inhalation capsule, and it should be used with the inhalation device provided. Removing the capsules from the packaging and placing them in a weekly medication box is not the correct method for administration.