Question

A nurse is providing DC teaching to a client who has COPD and a new prescription for albuterol. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. "This medication can increase my blood sugar levels."
B. "This medication can decrease my immune response."
C. "I can have an increase in my HR while taking this medication."
D. "I can have mouth sores while taking this medication."

Answer 1

A client who has COPD and is starting albuterol therapy would need to understand that typical side effects may include nervousness and shaking, not necessarily mouth sores. Albuterol helps by relaxing the airways and improving breathing. Vaccinations are very important for COPD patients to prevent complications from infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe. It primarily includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. The leading cause of COPD is long-term exposure to substances that irritate and damage the lungs, typically cigarette smoke. To help manage COPD and such symptoms as coughing and shortness of breath, albuterol, a bronchodilator, is often prescribed. It works by relaxing and opening air passages to the lungs, making breathing easier.

Getting vaccinations is crucial for COPD patients because they are at higher risk for respiratory infections, which can exacerbate their COPD symptoms. Proper vaccination helps to prevent potentially serious complications like pneumonia. Albuterol doesn't typically cause mouth sores; rather, it may cause side effects such as nervousness, shaking, or changes in taste. If a patient mentions mouth sores in relation to albuterol use, they might have misunderstood the possible side effects, and additional clarification may be needed.