Question

The nurse is teaching a client with asthma about albuterol. How should the nurse best describe the action of this medication?

A
"The medication will help to relax smooth muscles in the airways." Correct Answer (Blank)
B
"The medication is given to reduce secretions that block airways."
C
"The medication will stimulate the respiratory center in the brain."
D
"The medication will help to prevent pneumonia."

Answer 1

The nurse should explain to the client that albuterol acts as a bronchodilator, which relaxes the smooth muscles in the airways, thus easing breathing during an asthma attack. A

"The medication will help to relax smooth muscles in the airways." Correct Answer (Blank).

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct direct answer to the question regarding albuterol action is: "The medication will help to relax smooth muscles in the airways." Albuterol primarily works as a bronchodilator, acting on beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs.

Albuterol is a medication used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma by rapidly relaxing and opening the airways. When someone experiences an asthma attack, the muscles around the bronchioles contract, narrowing the airways, and the body produces more mucus, making it difficult to breathe. The utility of albuterol lies in its ability to relax smooth muscle within the bronchioles, rapidly expanding the air passages and easing symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. This improvement in air flow allows individuals to breathe more easily almost immediately after use. Albuterol is typically administered via an inhaler for quick relief, or through a nebulizer for those who have trouble using inhalers, especially young children.