Question

Joanne, age 16, has had her asthma well controlled by using only a beta-adrenergic metered-dose inhaler. Lately, she has had difficult breathing during the night, and her sleep has been interrupted about three times a week. What should be done to address her condition?

1) Increase the dosage of the beta-adrenergic metered-dose inhaler
2) Switch to a different type of inhaler
3) Consult a doctor for further evaluation
4) Continue using the same inhaler without any changes

Answer 1

Joanne should consult a doctor for further evaluation to reassess her asthma management plan and explore other treatment options or environmental changes due to the change in condition and increased frequency of nighttime asthma attacks.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Joanne, aged 16, with a history of well-controlled asthma, starts experiencing difficulty breathing at night and interrupted sleep around three times a week, the most appropriate action to take would be 3) Consult a doctor for further evaluation.

The recent change in her condition and the increased frequency of attacks, particularly during the night, suggest that her asthma may no longer be well-controlled with her current treatment regimen. It is important to see a healthcare provider to reassess her asthma management plan and to consider possible triggers or the need for additional or alternative therapies that may include long-term control medications such as inhaled corticosteroids, or changes to her environment to reduce exposure to potential triggers.