A nurse is assisting with the plan of care for a client who has a spinal cord injury and spasm-induced incontinence. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate a prescription for?

Choice A Reason:

Previous stroke is not directly associated with an increased risk of status asthmaticus. While individuals with certain medical conditions, such as neurological disorders, may have an increased risk of complications from severe asthma exacerbations, a previous stroke alone is not a recognized risk factor for status asthmaticus.

Choice B Reason:

Irritants and hypersensitivity to medications, may trigger asthma exacerbations, but they are not specific risk factors for status asthmaticus. Asthma exacerbations triggered by irritants or medications can typically be managed with appropriate treatment measures and do not necessarily lead to status asthmaticus.

Choice C Reason:

Previous intubation due to status asthmaticus episode is correct. Status asthmaticus is a severe and life-threatening asthma exacerbation that is unresponsive to standard treatment measures such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids. It is characterized by prolonged and severe bronchospasm, airway inflammation, and respiratory distress.

Choice D Reason:

Bronchial pneumonia is not a known risk factor for status asthmaticus. Bronchial pneumonia, or pneumonia affecting the bronchi and lungs, is a separate respiratory condition caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. While pneumonia can exacerbate asthma symptoms in individuals with asthma, it is not specifically associated with an increased risk of status asthmaticus.

Choice A Reason:

Dyspnea is not commonly seen in other chronic conditions of the aging older adult: This statement is incorrect. Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, can occur in various chronic conditions commonly seen in aging adults, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, and pulmonary fibrosis, among others. Dyspnea can be a symptom of respiratory or cardiovascular issues and is not exclusive to asthma.

Choice B Reason:

Aging is associated with decreased sensitivity to medications: This statement is generally incorrect. Aging can affect drug metabolism and clearance, leading to changes in medication sensitivity. Older adults may have altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, which can increase their sensitivity to certain medications, particularly those with sedative or CNS depressant effects. This increased sensitivity can potentially increase the risk of adverse drug reactions.

Choice C Reason:

Adverse reactions to medications in the aging older adult are lower: This statement is incorrect. While some physiological changes associated with aging may decrease the risk of adverse drug reactions, such as decreased renal function and altered drug metabolism, older adults are still at risk for adverse drug reactions due to factors such as polypharmacy, drug interactions, and increased sensitivity to medications.

Choice D Reason:

Physiological changes in the respiratory system can mimic the presence of airway obstruction: This statement is true. Physiological changes in the aging respiratory system, such as decreased lung elasticity, increased chest wall stiffness, and reduced respiratory muscle strength, can mimic the symptoms of airway obstruction seen in conditions like asthma or COPD. These changes can lead to decreased lung function, reduced exercise tolerance, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.