The nurse is caring for a patient with bronchitis and prepares to provide Tessalon pearls (benzonatate) as ordered. The patient states, "I don't think I've had this before. What is it for?" Which of the following responses by the nurse is best?
A) "This helps thin the mucus so it is easier for you to cough it up."
B) "It is a cough suppressant and will help reduce your coughing."
C) "This helps dilate the small airways in your lungs to help you breathe."
D) "It is a muscle relaxer so you can rest more comfortably."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Tessalon pearls (benzonatate) is a cough suppressant and is used to reduce coughing. It does not thin mucus, dilate airways or act as a muscle relaxer.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with Bronchitis and Prepares