Question

While teaching a young male adult to use an inhaler for his newly diagnosed asthma, the client stares into the distance and appears to be concentrating on something other than the lesson the nurse is presenting. What action should the nurse take?

Answer 1

The nurse should engage the patient by asking him to repeat the inhaler instructions, demonstrate the technique, and then have him demonstrate it back. Assess any factors contributing to inattention and create an environment conducive to learning, emphasizing the importance of proper technique and adherence.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the scenario where a young male adult seems distracted while being taught how to use an inhaler for his asthma, the nurse should actively engage the patient in the learning process. This involves checking for comprehension by asking the patient to repeat the instructions, demonstrating the technique, and then having the patient demonstrate the use of the inhaler back to ensure they understand properly.

The nurse should also assess for any factors that might be causing the lack of attention, such as anxiety, misunderstanding, or cognitive overload, and address these issues. It is essential to create a supportive and focused educational environment and ensure that the patient feels comfortable asking questions or expressing concerns about their asthma management.

Providing education on the importance of proper inhaler technique and consistent medication adherence is vital to help prevent asthma exacerbations and maintain optimal control over the condition. Encouraging the patient to seek medical help for any ongoing or worsening symptoms is also important, as early intervention can prevent complications associated with asthma.