Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumPhysiological Adaptation

A young adult client arrives at the urgent care clinic experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation. The client is leaning forward, speaking in two-word phrases, and using accessory muscles to breathe. Audible wheezing is present. Which of the following actions should the practical nurse take immediately? (Select all that apply)

  1. Position the client in a high-Fowler's or orthopneic positionAnswer
  2. Administer the prescribed inhaled albuterol treatmentAnswer
  3. C
    Obtain a detailed family history regarding childhood asthma
  4. D
    Provide an oral fluid challenge to liquefy thick respiratory secretions
  5. Apply prescribed supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate saturationAnswer

Answer

The correct actions are to position the client in a high-Fowler's or orthopneic position, administer the prescribed inhaled albuterol treatment, and apply prescribed supplemental oxygen.
An acute asthma exacerbation is a medical emergency requiring rapid intervention to ensure airway patency and adequate oxygenation. Positioning the client upright facilitates maximal lung expansion. Administering a short-acting bronchodilator relieves acute bronchospasm, while supplemental oxygen treats immediate hypoxia.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Recognize signs of an acute respiratory emergency.
The client's use of accessory muscles, tripod positioning, and inability to speak in full sentences indicate severe airway compromise.
Identifying acute physiological decompensation is the critical first step in prioritizing care.
2
Prioritize airway and breathing interventions.
Upright positioning, bronchodilators, and oxygen therapy are initiated immediately.
These rapid actions directly relieve airway constriction, improve oxygenation, and reduce the immediate threat to life.
3
Defer non-emergent or potentially harmful tasks.
Detailed history taking and oral fluid administration are avoided.
Non-emergent tasks delay life-saving care, and offering oral fluids presents a significant aspiration risk during severe dyspnea.

Key Concept

Acute Asthma Exacerbation Prioritization
Rate this question

Topics

Physiological Adaptation

More questions from this topic