A nurse is caring for a client receiving theophylline therapy. Which of the following assessments should the nurse prioritize?

A) Correct. Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) require the client to coordinate their breathing with inhalation. They release a measured dose of medication in aerosol form, and the client needs to inhale deeply at the same time to ensure the medication reaches the lungs. Dry powder inhalers (DPIs), on the other hand, do not require coordination of breathing and inhalation. The client simply needs to inhale forcefully to activate the powder dispersion.

B) Incorrect. MDIs contain a propellant that helps atomize the medication and facilitate its delivery into the lungs, but this is not the main difference between MDIs and DPIs.

C) Incorrect. DPIs deliver the medication in powder form, not mist form.

D) Incorrect. DPIs do not require the use of a spacer device, unlike MDIs, which can benefit from a spacer device to improve medication delivery.

C) Correct. Leukotriene receptor antagonists are not intended for immediate relief during an asthma attack. They are long-term control medications used to manage and prevent asthma symptoms. Clients should have a separate rescue inhaler for acute symptom relief.

A) Incorrect. Taking the medication on an empty stomach may enhance its absorption, although it can be taken with or without food.

B) Incorrect. Leukotriene receptor antagonists have been associated with mood changes, including depression and suicidal ideation. Therefore, it is important to notify the healthcare provider if any mood changes occur.

D) Incorrect. The client should continue using their other asthma medications as prescribed, as leukotriene receptor antagonists are often used as an adjunct therapy for asthma management.