Final answer:
To treat wheezing, medications often target the beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which, when activated, lead to the relaxation of the smooth muscles in the bronchi, helping to ease respiratory distress. A. "Beta-2 adrenergic receptors."
Step-by-step explanation:
In providing care to a client with wheezing, the nurse knows that a medication targets the beta-2 adrenergic receptors. These receptors are part of the adrenergic system which includes two types of receptors: the alpha (α)-adrenergic receptor and the beta (ß)-adrenergic receptor. Unlike cholinergic receptors, these are not classified by which drugs can bind to them and are G protein-coupled receptors.
When considering the adrenergic system, there are two types of α-adrenergic receptors (α₁, and α₂) and three types of ß-adrenergic receptors (ß₁, ß₂ and ß₃). The beta-2 (ß₂) adrenergic receptor is particularly important in the context of wheezing as its activation leads to smooth muscle relaxation, especially in the bronchi, which can help alleviate the symptoms.
Adrenergic receptors bondage epinephrine and norepinephrine, and specifically, the ß2-receptor's action contributes to the relaxation of smooth muscle tissue found in the bronchi, a factor crucial in addressing respiratory issues like wheezing. Therefore, the correct answer to the question regarding the medication’s target receptor for treating wheezing is A. "Beta-2 adrenergic receptors."