Final answer:
When administering triamcinolone and salmeterol for asthma, the nurse should educate the patient on proper usage of inhalers, ensure salmeterol is used regularly and not for acute symptoms, and assist with nebulizers if needed. The bronchodilator is typically used before the corticosteroid to open airways effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
When administering triamcinolone (Azmacort) and salmeterol (Serevent) for a client with a history of asthma, a nurse should take several important actions. Triamcinolone is a corticosteroid used for the long-term control of asthma symptoms. It works by reducing inflammation and immune response in the airways.
On the other hand, salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that helps to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. It is used for the prevention of asthma attacks and should not be used for acute symptoms.
The nurse's role includes educating the client on the proper use of inhalers, ensuring that the patient is aware that salmeterol is for regular use and is not effective for sudden asthma symptoms. If a nebulizer is needed due to difficulty using inhalers, the nurse should also be able to assist with this.
Furthermore, it is essential to instruct the patient on the correct order of inhaler use if both medications are prescribed. Typically, the bronchodilator should be used first to open the airways, followed by the corticosteroid. The nurse should also be attentive to the patient's technique to maximize the efficacy of the medication. Coordination of inhaler actuation and inhalation, proper breath holding after inhalation, and appropriate wait time between puffs are all critical elements.