Exhibits

The nurse is teaching Lily purse-lip breathing. She should instruct her to inhale slowly through her:

A. Montelukast:Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for long-term asthma control and prevention of symptoms. It is not effective for treating acute bronchospasm or providing immediate symptom relief during an asthma attack.

B. Fluticasone:Fluticasone is an inhaled corticosteroid used regularly to reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms. It does not work quickly enough to relieve acute symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath.

C. Prednisone:Prednisone is a systemic corticosteroid used for moderate to severe asthma exacerbations, but its onset is delayed. It is typically given alongside a short-acting bronchodilator to reduce inflammation over several hours, not for quick relief.

D. Albuterol:Albuterol is a short-acting beta₂-agonist that works within minutes to relax bronchial smooth muscles, making it the medication of choice for immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and dyspnea.

A. Blood pressure of 138/84 mmHg:This is within the acceptable range for a 68-year-old adult, especially with a history of hypertension. It does not indicate an acute threat or require immediate intervention in the context of pneumonia.

B. WBC count of 15,000/mm³:An elevated WBC count is expected in response to infection, such as pneumonia. While it confirms an inflammatory process, it is not the most urgent issue requiring immediate nursing action.

C. Blood glucose of 198 mg/dL:This mild hyperglycemia is not uncommon in infections and stress responses, particularly in patients with diabetes. It should be monitored, but it is not an immediate danger to the patient.

D. Oxygen saturation 89%:This low oxygen saturation indicates hypoxemia and impaired gas exchange, which is critical in a patient with pneumonia. Immediate oxygen therapy is necessary to prevent tissue hypoxia and respiratory failure.