The nurse is teaching a patient with asthma about using a metered-dose inhaler to administer albuterol (Proventil). Which statements should the nurse include in the teaching plan? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. This medication can produce systemic effects such as tachycardia and tremors.
b. After inhaling the medication, hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
c. After inhaling the medication and holding your breath, exhale slowly through an open mouth.
d. After the last dose, do not rinse your mouth or drink any water for at least 1 hour.

Answer 1

A, B
Inhaled medications are designed to produce local effects; for example, bronchodilators open narrowed bronchioles. However, because these medications are absorbed rapidly through the pulmonary circulation, some have the potential for producing systemic side effects. Holding the breath for 10 seconds after inhalation allows the aerosol to penetrate deeper areas of the lung.
Exhalation should occur slowly through the nose or pursed lips to keep the small airways open during exhalation. About 2 minutes after the last dose, the mouth should be rinsed with warm water because inhaled bronchodilators may cause dry mouth and taste alterations.