Question

The nurse is reinforcing teaching concerning the use of a cromolyn sodium inhaler for a 10-year-old with asthma. Which would be an accurate concept to emphasize?

1.) you should use the inhaled whenever you feel some difficulty in breathing
2.) you should use the inhaler between meals
3.) you should use the inhaler regularly every day even if you are symptom free
4.) you can discontinue using the inhaler when you are feeling stronger

Answer 1

Cromolyn sodium inhaler should be used regularly every day for asthma management, even if the individual is symptom-free, and should not be discontinued without consulting a healthcare provider.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cromolyn sodium is a medication used to manage and prevent symptoms of asthma. It serves as a prophylactic agent, meaning it is used to prevent asthma attacks rather than treat them once they occur. Therefore, the most accurate information to reinforce would be that the inhaler should be used regularly every day, even when the individual is symptom-free, to maintain control over the asthma symptoms and to prevent the frequency of attacks. As a chronic condition, asthma requires continuous management, and medications like cromolyn sodium work best when used consistently. It is not a quick-relief inhaler for sudden shortness of breath or acute asthma attacks. Additionally, asthma treatment plans, including the use of inhalers, should never be altered or discontinued without consulting a healthcare provider.