A client with bronchial asthma and sinusitis has increased wheezing and decreased peak flow readings. During the admission interview, the nurse reconciles the medications and notes that which of the following over-the-counter medications taken by the client could be contributing to increased asthma symptoms?

Question

A client with bronchial asthma and sinusitis has increased wheezing and decreased peak flow readings.  During the admission interview, the nurse reconciles the medications and notes that which of the following over-the-counter medications taken by the client could be contributing to increased asthma symptoms?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Two groups of commonly used drugs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and beta-adrenergic antagonists (beta blockers), have the potential to cause problems for clients with asthma. Ibuprofen (Motrin) and aspirin are common over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs that are effective in relieving pain, discomfort, and fever. About 10%-20% of asthmatics are sensitive to these medications and can experience severe bronchospasm after ingestion. This is prevalent in clients with nasal polyposis. (Option A) Guaifenesin (Mucinex) is an expectorant used to facilitate mobilization of mucus and should not have the potential to exacerbate asthma or cause an attack. (Option C) Loratadine (Claritin) is an antihistamine and should not have the potential to exacerbate asthma or cause an attack. (Option D) Vitamin D is used to help maintain bone density and should not have the potential to exacerbate asthma or cause an attack. Educational objective: Ibuprofen and aspirin are common over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs that can cause bronchospasm in some clients with asthma.

A Client with Bronchial Asthma and Sinusitis Has Increased Wheezing