Questions and Answers
Which of the following are common upper respiratory infections?
Upper respiratory infections are always caused by bacteria.
False
What is the action of antitussives?
Suppress the cough reflex.
Which medication is a prototype expectorant?
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What are the common adverse effects of mucolytics like Acetylcysteine?
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Which of the following is an action of decongestants?
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Topical decongestants cause a rebound effect if used for more than 5-7 days.
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What is a common use for antihistamines?
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Antitussives include __________ and __________.
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Match the types of decongestants with their examples:
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Study Notes
Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)
- URIs affect the upper respiratory tract, including nose, throat, sinuses, larynx, and trachea.
- Common causes: viruses, bacteria, mycoplasma, and fungi.
- Examples of URIs:
- Common cold
- Rhinosinusitis
- Laryngitis
- Pharyngitis
- Epiglottitis
- Symptoms include cough, fever, hoarse voice, fatigue, sore throat, red eyes, and swollen lymph nodes.
Drugs Acting on the Upper Respiratory Tract
-
Antitussives: Suppress cough reflex; indicated for nonproductive cough.
- Benzonatate, codeine, and dextromethorphan are examples.
- Contraindicated for patients requiring cough to maintain airway.
- Common adverse effects: drying of mucous membranes, drowsiness, GI upset.
-
Expectorants: Example – Guaifenesin.
- Increase productive cough by liquefying and reducing viscosity of secretions.
- Indications include URTI, bronchitis, rhinosinusitis, atelectasis.
- Contraindications: pregnancy, persistent cough. Adverse effects include nausea and dizziness.
-
Mucolytics: Example – Acetylcysteine.
- Break down mucous to decrease viscosity, aiding high-risk patients.
- Indications: COPD, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis.
- Contraindications: hypersensitivity, asthma, under six years old.
-
Decongestants: Reduce secretions via local vasoconstriction.
- Types include topical (e.g., Afrin), oral (e.g., pseudoephedrine), and topical steroids (e.g., fluticasone).
- Indicated for nasal congestion due to cold or allergic rhinitis.
- Common adverse effects: local burning, rebound congestion with prolonged use, hypertension from sympathetic activation.
-
Antihistamines: Block histamine effects for allergic reactions.
- Two generations:
- First-generation: e.g., diphenhydramine (sedating).
- Second-generation: e.g., loratadine (non-sedating).
- Indications: allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, urticaria.
- Contraindications may include pregnancy and glaucoma.
- Two generations:
Nursing Considerations
- Assess patient history, allergies, and respiratory status.
- Monitor for effectiveness and adverse drug reactions.
- Educate patients on potential side effects (e.g., drowsiness with antitussives, drink plenty of water with expectorants).
- Advise caution with concurrent use of CNS depressants, alcohol, or other medications that may interact.
Key Teaching Points
- Antitussives may cause drowsiness; patients should avoid alcohol and CNS depressants.
- Maintain hydration when taking expectorants; consult a physician for persistent cough.
- Instruct on appropriate usage duration for decongestants to prevent rebound congestion.
- Emphasize the difference in sedative effects between first and second-generation antihistamines for patient safety.
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Description
This quiz focuses on Chapters 53 and 54 related to upper respiratory disorders. It covers physiological events, therapeutic actions, pharmacokinetics, contraindications, and drug interactions. Test your knowledge about the critical aspects of upper respiratory treatments.
