Respiratory questions
6 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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A patient has an acute asthma attack. Which inhaler should be used?
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Answer B: Albuterol Albuterol is a short-acting beta-2 agonist that opens the airways within minutes. The others are long-term controllers.
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A patient is due for albuterol and fluticasone inhalers. In what order should they be given?
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Answer A: Albuterol first, then fluticasone after a short wait The bronchodilator opens the airways first so that the corticosteroid can reach deeper into the lungs.
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Which adverse effect is expected after albuterol?
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Answer B: Tremor and tachycardia Beta-2 stimulation causes tremor and some beta-1 stimulation raises the heart rate; it also lowers potassium.
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What should a patient do after using an inhaled corticosteroid?
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Answer C: Rinse the mouth with water and spit Rinsing removes drug left in the mouth and throat and prevents oral candidiasis (thrush).
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Which adverse effect is the subject of a boxed warning for montelukast?
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Answer D: Neuropsychiatric events such as depression and suicidal thoughts Montelukast carries a boxed warning for serious neuropsychiatric events in children and adults.
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A patient says, 'I only use my fluticasone inhaler when I'm wheezing.' What is the best response?
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Answer B: Fluticasone works only if used every day; use albuterol for wheezing Inhaled corticosteroids take days to weeks to reduce inflammation and do not relieve acute symptoms.