The nurse explains to a client that inhaled corticosteroid medications are used in the long-term management of asthma to decrease:

Question

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. inflammation of the airways.
2. mucus production.
3. bronchial hyperresponsiveness to allergens.
4. bronchial constriction.
5. edema.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,2,3,5
Rationale 1: Corticosteroids decrease inflammation.
Rationale 2: Corticosteroids decrease inflammation, thereby reducing mucus production.
Rationale 3: Corticosteroids decrease bronchial hyperresponsiveness to allergens that can cause inflammation, edema, and bronchospasm.
Rationale 4: Corticosteroids sensitize the bronchial smooth muscle to be more responsive to beta agonist stimulation, which ultimately results in bronchodilation; but they do not directly decrease bronchial constriction.
Rationale 5: Corticosteroids decrease inflammation, thereby reducing edema.
Global Rationale: Corticosteroids decrease inflammation of the airways by inhibiting the synthesis and release of inflammatory mediators, including histamine, leukotriene, cytokines, and prostaglandins. They also inhibit the number of circulating leukocytes and decrease vascular permeability. This results in diminished mucus production and edema, thus reducing airway obstruction. Although corticosteroids are not bronchodilators, they sensitize the bronchial smooth muscle to be more responsive to beta-agonist stimulation. In addition, they reduce the bronchial hyperresponsiveness to allergens, which is responsible for triggering many asthma attacks.