Question

A nurse is planning care for a client who has asthma. Which of the medications should the nurse plan to administer during an acute asthma attack?

A) Albuterol
B) Ibuprofen
C) Diphenhydramine
D) Lisinopril

Answer 1

During an acute asthma attack, Albuterol should be administered to the patient as it is a fast-acting bronchodilator that provides immediate relief of asthma symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Treating Acute Asthma Attacks

During an acute asthma attack, the appropriate medication to administer is Albuterol. This medication is a fast-acting bronchodilator that quickly soothes constricted air passages, making it easier to breathe. It is usually delivered via an inhaler or, for individuals such as young children who have trouble using an inhaler, through a nebulizer for immediate relief of asthma symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

The severity of the condition, frequency of attacks, and identified triggers influence the choice of asthma medication. However, for emergency treatment during an attack, rapid-action bronchodilators like Albuterol are essential. Options B) Ibuprofen, C) Diphenhydramine, and D) Lisinopril are not appropriate for treating acute attacks as they serve different purposes.