Bronchodilators Quiz

Study Notes

Bronchodilators

Albuterol is a short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist, commonly used for asthma or COPD exacerbations.
- Dosage:
  - Inhalation: 90-180 mcg (2 puffs) every 4-6 hours as needed.
  - Nebulization: 2.5 mg in 3 mL of saline every 4-6 hours.
- Mechanism: Relaxes bronchial smooth muscle, leading to bronchodilation.
- Nursing Responsibilities: Assess respiratory status before and after administration, educate on inhaler technique, monitor for effectiveness and side effects, and ensure they understand when to use rescue medication.
- Side Effects: Common: Tachycardia, tremors, headache, and nervousness. Serious: Paradoxical bronchospasm, elevated blood pressure, and hypokalemia.
Levalbuterol is a selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist, also used for bronchodilation.
- Dosage:
  - Inhalation: 45 mcg (2 puffs) every 4-6 hours as needed.
  - Nebulization: 0.63 mg (3 mL) or 1.25 mg (0.63 mg/3 mL) every 6-8 hours.
- Mechanism: Promotes bronchodilation by relaxing airway smooth muscle.
- Nursing Responsibilities: Monitor respiratory status and vital signs, educate on inhalation techniques and usage, observe for side effects and effectiveness, and assess for potential drug interactions.
- Side Effects: Common: Tremors, headache, and palpitations. Serious: Paradoxical bronchospasm and increased heart rate.

Corticosteroids

Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation, often for severe asthma attacks.
- Dosage:
  - Adults: 5-60 mg daily, depending on the condition; tapering may be required.
  - Pediatric: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day, depending on the condition.
- Mechanism: Reduces inflammation by suppressing the immune response and inhibiting inflammatory mediators.
- Nursing Responsibilities: Monitor vital signs and signs of infection, assess for potential side effects, educate on the importance of adherence and proper tapering to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
- Side Effects: Common: Increased appetite, weight gain, insomnia, and mood changes. Serious: Osteoporosis, hypertension, diabetes, and adrenal suppression. Careful monitoring is essential, especially during long-term use.
Methylprednisolone is another corticosteroid used to decrease inflammation.
- Dosage:
  - Adults: 4-48 mg daily, depending on the condition; tapering is often necessary.
  - Pediatric: 0.1-2 mg/kg/day, adjusted based on the clinical situation.
- Mechanism: Decreases inflammation by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory proteins and mediators.
- Nursing Responsibilities: Monitor for signs of infection, assess blood glucose levels, observe for side effects, and educate patients on taking the medication with food to minimize GI irritation.
- Side Effects: Common: Insomnia, increased appetite, weight gain, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Serious: Risk of infections, adrenal suppression, and long-term effects like osteoporosis. Regular follow-up and monitoring for side effects are essential.

Analgesics

Morphine is an opioid analgesic often used to manage pain in cases of obstructive issues like bowel obstructions.
- Dosage: Adults: Initial dose typically 2.5-10 mg IV every 2-6 hours as needed; oral doses vary based on formulation.
- Mechanism: Binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, altering the perception of and response to pain.
- Nursing Responsibilities: Monitor pain levels and vital signs, particularly respiratory rate, assess for signs of sedation and opioid toxicity, educate patients about potential side effects and the importance of using as prescribed.
- Side Effects: Common: Drowsiness, constipation, nausea, and dizziness. Serious: Respiratory depression, hypotension, and risk of dependence or abuse.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a common analgesic used for pain and fever.
- Dosage:
  - Adults: 650-1000 mg every 4-6 hours as needed; maximum 3000-4000 mg per day (depending on guidelines).
  - Pediatric: 10-15 mg/kg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 5 doses in 24 hours.
- Mechanism: Inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins in the brain, reducing pain and fever.
- Nursing Responsibilities: Assess pain and temperature before and after administration, monitor for signs of liver toxicity, especially in cases of overdose or chronic use, educate patients about the maximum daily limit to avoid liver damage.
- Side Effects: Common: Nausea and rash (rare). Serious: Hepatotoxicity, especially in overdose situations. Provide clear guidance on dosing and emphasize the importance of following recommended usage.

Description

Test your knowledge on bronchodilators such as Albuterol and Levalbuterol. This quiz covers their mechanisms, dosages, nursing responsibilities, and potential side effects. Perfect for nursing students or healthcare professionals looking to refresh their understanding!