A provider has prescribed ipratropium bromide/albuterol sulfate (Combivent) for a patient who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse explains that this combination product is prescribed primarily for which reason?
a. To be more convenient for patients who require both medications
b. To improve compliance in patients who may forget to take both drugs
c. To increase forced expiratory volume, an indicator of symptom improvement
d. To minimize the side effects that would occur if the drugs are given separately
ANS: C
Combivent is more effective and has a longer duration of action than if either agent is used alone, and the two agents combined increase the FEV1. While it is more convenient and may improve compliance, this is not the primary reason for using it. The combination does not alter drug side effects.
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