A patient is using a metered-dose inhaler containing albuterol for asthma. The medication label instructs the patient to administer "2 puffs every 4 hours as needed for coughing or wheezing." The patient reports feeling jittery sometimes when taking the medication, and he or she doesn't feel that the medication is always effective. Which action is outside the nurse's scope of practice?
A) Asking the patient to demonstrate the use of the inhaler
B) Assessing the patient's exposure to tobacco smoke
C) Auscultating lung sounds and obtaining vital signs
D) Suggesting that the patient use 1 puff to reduce side effects

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is not within the nurse's scope of practice to change the dose of a medication without an order from a prescriber. Asking the patient to demonstrate inhaler use helps the nurse to evaluate the patient's ability to administer the medication properly and is part of the nurse's evaluation. Assessing tobacco smoke exposure helps the nurse determine whether nondrug therapies, such a smoke avoidance, can be used as an adjunct to drug therapy. Performing a physical assessment helps the nurse evaluate the patient's response to the medication.

A Patient Is Using a Metered-Dose Inhaler Containing Albuterol for Asthma