A patient comes to the ER with complaints of shortness of breath, wheezing, a O2 saturation of 92%, respiratory rate of 28, and heart rate of 110. The patient did take a short acting beta 2 agonist prior to coming to the ER. Which drug will the nurses anticipate
Albuterol
Theophylline
Epinephrine
Dexamethasone
The Correct Answer is C
A. Albuterol: The patient has already used a short-acting beta-2 agonist, so repeating albuterol may provide some relief but is unlikely to be sufficient for an acute exacerbation with persistent tachypnea and hypoxia. Additional interventions targeting severe airway inflammation may be required.
B. Theophylline: Theophylline is a bronchodilator used for long-term asthma management, not for immediate relief in acute severe exacerbations. Its slow onset and narrow therapeutic range make it inappropriate for emergency treatment in this scenario.
C. Epinephrine: Epinephrine is indicated in severe acute asthma or anaphylactic reactions when rapid bronchodilation is needed. It works on alpha and beta receptors to reduce airway edema, relax bronchial smooth muscle, and improve oxygenation. In the ER, epinephrine provides fast-acting relief for life-threatening airway obstruction.
D. Dexamethasone: Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces airway inflammation but has a delayed onset of action. While important for sustained management, it does not provide immediate relief for acute shortness of breath or hypoxia and is typically given alongside fast-acting agents.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["2300"]
Explanation
Calculation of Total Intake (mL)
- Continuous IV Infusion (Lactated Ringer's)
Rate: 125 mL/hr
Time: 9 hr
Volume = 125 mL/hr x 9 hr}
=1,125 mL
- Intermittent IV Medications
Cefazolin infusion volume: 100 mL
Ranitidine infusion volume: 50 mL
- Blood Products (Packed RBCs)
Unit 1 volume: 275 mL
Unit 2 volume: 250 mL
- IV Fluid Boluses
Bolus 1 volume: 250 mL
Bolus 2 volume: 250 mL
- Calculate Total Intake
Total Intake = 1,125 mL + 100 mL + 50 mL + 275 mL + 250 mL + 250 mL + 250 mL
Total Intake = 2,300 mL
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Albuterol is an anticholinergic causing dryness of bronchial secretions: Albuterol does not have anticholinergic properties and does not reduce secretions. Its primary action is bronchodilation, not secretion management.
B. Albuterol stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system causing the heart rate to decrease.: Albuterol is not a parasympathetic stimulant and can actually cause mild tachycardia due to beta-1 effects. Decreasing heart rate is not part of its therapeutic action in asthma.
C. Albuterol is a beta 2 adrenergic agonist which relaxes bronchial smooth muscle.: Albuterol selectively activates beta-2 receptors in the airways, causing smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation. This prevents exercise-induced bronchospasm and improves airflow, making it the first-line rescue medication for asthma.
D. Albuterol is an antihistamine, causing a block in the histamine response.: Albuterol does not block histamine receptors and does not prevent allergic responses. Its mechanism targets beta-2 adrenergic receptors to dilate airways, not histamine pathways.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.