A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has asthma and is about to start taking theophylline (Theo-24). The nurse should tell the client that this medication might cause which of the following adverse effects?

Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist commonly used to manage asthma and allergic rhinitis. Its primary therapeutic effect is to improve respiratory symptoms by reducing inflammation and constriction of the airways. Therefore, an increased ease of breathing would be an expected outcome indicating that the medication is working effectively.

The other options are incorrect because:

A. The client's seizure threshold is reduced: Montelukast does not have any effect on the seizure threshold. This outcome is unrelated to the medication and may be indicative of a different condition or treatment.

B. The client experiences less muscle pain: Montelukast is not indicated for reducing muscle pain. This outcome is unrelated to the medication and may be indicative of a different condition or treatment.

D. The client's platelet count is increased: Montelukast does not have an effect on platelet count. This outcome is unrelated to the medication and may be indicative of a different condition or treatment.

The nurse should make the following responses regarding how albuterol helps the client's breathing:

• The medication will open the airways.
• The medication will prevent wheezing.

Albuterol is a bronchodilator medication commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to the dilation of the bronchial tubes and increased airflow. This mechanism helps open up the airways and prevent or relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

The other options are incorrect because:

The medication will decrease coughing episodes: While albuterol may indirectly reduce coughing episodes by opening up the airways and improving airflow, its primary effect is on bronchodilation rather than directly targeting coughing.

The medication will stimulate the flow of mucus: Albuterol is not known to stimulate mucus flow. Instead, it focuses on bronchodilation to improve airflow in the lungs.

The medication will reduce inflammation: Albuterol is primarily a bronchodilator and does not have a significant anti-inflammatory effect. Other medications, such as corticosteroids, are typically used to address inflammation in respiratory conditions.