A nurse is caring for a client who asks how albuterol helps his breathing. Which of the following responses should the nurse make? (Select all that apply.)
The medication will prevent wheezing.
The medication will decrease coughing episodes.
The medication will reduce inflammation.
The medication will open the airways.
The medication will stimulate flow of mucus.
Correct Answer : A,B,D
Answer: A, B D
Rationale:
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Albuterol is a bronchodilator, and one of its key effects is to relax the muscles around the airways, which helps prevent wheezing. Wheezing is often caused by narrowed airways, and by opening them, albuterol helps to prevent this sound, which is associated with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
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B. The medication will decrease coughing episodes:
Albuterol can help decrease coughing in individuals with conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by relaxing the muscles in the airways, which reduces airway constriction. Since coughing often occurs due to airway obstruction, albuterol’s bronchodilator effect can help alleviate this symptom. -
C. The medication will reduce inflammation: Albuterol does not have anti-inflammatory properties. Its primary mechanism is bronchodilation, and anti-inflammatory treatment generally requires corticosteroids, not beta-agonists like albuterol.
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D. The medication will open the airways:
This is correct. Albuterol works as a bronchodilator, meaning it opens up the airways by relaxing the smooth muscles surrounding them. This improves airflow and makes breathing easier, which is why it is often used in conditions like asthma or COPD. -
E. The medication will stimulate flow of mucus: Albuterol does not stimulate mucus production; it primarily works by relaxing the airways. However, by improving airflow, it can help clients more effectively expel mucus through coughing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Oral candidiasis, also known as thrush, is a fungal infection of the mouth caused by Candida albicans. It is a common adverse effect of inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, which can suppress the normal flora of the oral cavity and create a favorable environment for fungal growth. It manifests as white patches or plaques on the tongue, palate, or cheeks that can be scraped off.
a) Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not an adverse effect of fluticasone. It can be caused by diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, diuretics, or kidney disease.
b) Hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose level, is not an adverse effect of fluticasone. It can be caused by
insulin overdose, oral hypoglycemic agents, alcohol intake, or prolonged fasting.
c) Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not an adverse effect of fluticasone. It can be caused by stress, obesity, smoking, salt intake, or kidney disease.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Answer: D. Cheyne-Stokes respirations
Rationale:
A) Stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound resulting from disrupted airflow in the upper airway. It is not characterized by alternating periods of hyperventilation and apnea, making this choice incorrect.
B) Kussmaul respirations: Kussmaul respirations are deep, labored breaths typically associated with metabolic acidosis, such as diabetic ketoacidosis. These respirations do not exhibit alternating periods of hyperventilation and apnea, so this option is not applicable.
C) Apneustic respirations: Apneustic respirations are characterized by prolonged inhalation followed by a prolonged pause before exhalation. This pattern does not align with the alternating hyperventilation and apnea described, making it an incorrect choice.
D) Cheyne-Stokes respirations: Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a cyclical pattern of increasing depth and rate of breathing followed by a gradual decrease in depth and a period of apnea. This description matches the client's breathing pattern of alternating hyperventilation and apnea, making this the correct answer.
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