Question

50. The nurse is caring for a child receiving albuterol (Proventil) for asthma. The parents ask the nurse why their child is receiving this medication. Which explanation is correct?

A) decrease the swelling in the airways."
* B) relax the smooth muscles in the airways."
C) reduce the secretions blocking the airways."
D) stimulate the respiratory center in the brain that control respirations."

Answer 1

Albuterol (Proventil) is administered to a child with asthma to relax the smooth muscles in the airways, causing bronchodilation and making it easier to breathe.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct explanation for why a child is receiving albuterol (Proventil) for asthma is to relax the smooth muscles in the airways. Albuterol is a bronchodilator, which works by causing bronchodilation, meaning it increases the size of the bronchioles by relaxing the muscles around them.

This action helps to open up the airways, making it easier to breathe, and is particularly effective during asthma attacks characterized by symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and tightness of the chest.