Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following drugs is classified as an antihistamine for upper respiratory tract conditions?
What is the effect of xanthine derivatives, like theophylline, when their blood concentration exceeds 20 mcg/mL?
Which of the following medications should be used first before corticosteroid aerosols for respiratory treatment?
Which type of respiratory medication does ipratropium bromide belong to?
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What is one of the main uses for expectorants like guaifenesin?
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Which of the following best describes the action of sympathomimetic bronchodilators such as Albuterol?
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Which nursing consideration is essential when administering inhaled corticosteroids?
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What is a common side effect of xanthine toxicity indicated by concentrations exceeding 35 mcg/mL?
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Which drug is indicated for managing symptoms of asthma by blocking leukotriene receptors?
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Which of the following should be emphasized in nursing considerations for patients with respiratory conditions?
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Study Notes
Drugs for Upper Respiratory Tract
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Antihistamines - Treat allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
- Chlorpheniramine and Diphenhydramine - older generations with more side effects, like drowsiness
- Claritin (Cetirizine) - newer generations, more selective, fewer side effects
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Drugs for Common Colds
- Phenylephrine - nasal decongestant, relieves sinus pressure and congestion
Drugs for Upper Respiratory Tract - Cough
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Antitussives - Suppress cough - Dextromethorphan - Over-the-counter (OTC) cough suppressant - Codeine - Stronger cough suppressant, available by prescription - Butamirate - Prescription cough suppressant
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Expectorants - Thin mucus and make it easier to cough up - Guaifenesin - OTC expectorant
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Mucolytics - Break down thick mucus
- Carbocysteine, Ambroxol, and Bromhexine - Prescription mucolytics
Drugs for Lower Respiratory Tract - Bronchodilators
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Bronchodilators - Open the airways to improve breathing
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Xanthine Derivatives (Methylxanthines) - Relax smooth muscles in the airway
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Aminophylline (theophylline ethylenediamine) - Common example
- Therapeutic level (N) : 10-20 mcg/mL
- Toxicity:
- >20 mcg/mL - Nausea (early sign)
- >35 mcg/mL - Tremor (later sign)
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Aminophylline (theophylline ethylenediamine) - Common example
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Sympathomimetic Bronchodilators - Stimulate the sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight response)
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Short Acting - Quick relief
- Albuterol - Lasts 4-6 hours
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Long Acting - Extended relief
- Terbutaline - Lasts 12 hours
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Short Acting - Quick relief
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Anticholinergic Bronchodilators - Block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that constricts the airways, leading to smooth muscle relaxation
- Ipratropium Bromide - Inhaled bronchodilator
Drugs for Lower Respiratory Tract - Steroids
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Steroids - Reduce inflammation in the lungs, effectively managing chronic inflammatory lung diseases, like asthma.
- Beclomethasone, Hydrocortisone, and Prednisone - Examples
Anti-Asthma Drugs
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Leukotriene Receptor Antagonists - Block leukotriene receptors, reducing inflammation in the airways.
- Montelukast (Singulair) - Used for long-term asthma control
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Mast Cell Stabilizers - Prevent the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals from mast cells
- Cromolyn Sodium - Used to prevent exercise-induced asthma
Nursing Considerations
- Breathing and Coughing Techniques - Help remove respiratory secretions and optimize oxygen exchange.
- Relaxation Techniques - Reduce anxiety and promote relaxation
- Evaluate Heart Rate and Blood Pressure - Assess for changes due to medication side effects
- Appropriate Positioning - Optimize lung expansion
- Tremors- Common side effect; observe and document
- Hydration - Encourage plenty of fluids to help thin respiratory secretions
- Smoking Cessation - Emphasize smoking cessation for respiratory health improvement
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Steroid Medications
- Do not use during acute attacks - Use bronchodilator first
- Use bronchodilator before corticosteroid aerosol - Open airways for better medication delivery
- Hold the inhaled drug for a few seconds before exhaling - Ensure proper deposition in the airways
- Allow 1-3 minutes to elapse between each inhalation - Allows for maximum absorption
- Rinse mouth with water after - Prevents oral fungal infections
- Notify provider if a sore throat or sore mouth occurs - May indicate fungal infection
- Do not stop abruptly - Must taper off gradually under provider supervision
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Description
This quiz covers essential medications for treating upper respiratory tract conditions, such as antihistamines, antitussives, and expectorants. It focuses on their uses, effectiveness, and potential side effects. Test your knowledge of common drugs like Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, and Guaifenesin.
