The nurse is providing discharge instruction to a client newly diagnosed with asthma. The client has been prescribed albuterol (Proventil) for bronchospasm. Which side effects should the nurse explain to the client?

Question

Standard Text: Select all that apply.
1. Restlessness
2. Tremor
3. Nervousness
4. Abnormal EKG
5. Hypertensive crisis

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,2,3
Rationale 1: Albuterol activates the sympathetic nervous system, which results in bronchodilation but can also cause restlessness.
Rationale 2: Albuterol activates the sympathetic nervous system, which results in bronchodilation but can also cause tremors.
Rationale 3: Albuterol activates the sympathetic nervous system, which results in bronchodilation but can also cause nervousness.
Rationale 4: Albuterol would be used cautiously in any client with a history of prolonged QT interval, coronary artery disease, or high blood pressure. However, this is not a side effect the client would be warned to expect.
Rationale 5: Hypertensive crisis would only occur if the client is taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) at the same time as albuterol.
Global Rationale: Serious adverse effects from inhaled albuterol are uncommon when taken as directed; however, PO forms cause more sympathomimetic adverse effects. Some patients experience palpitations, headaches, throat irritation, tremor, nervousness, restlessness, and tachycardia. Less common adverse reactions include insomnia and dry mouth. Uncommon adverse effects include chest pain, paradoxical bronchospasm, and allergic reactions.
Albuterol would be used cautiously in any client with a history of prolonged QT interval, coronary artery disease, or high blood pressure. However, this is not a side effect the client would be warned to expect. Hypertensive crisis would only occur if the client is taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) at the same time as albuterol.