Asthma Basics
Asthma is this type of chronic disorder affecting the airways.
What is an inflammatory disorder?
During an acute asthma attack, this wheeze can be heard without a stethoscope.
What is an audible wheeze?
This test measures the largest amount of air exhaled after a deep breath.
What is forced vital capacity (FVC)?
This position helps ease breathing during an asthma attack.
What is high Fowler’s?
This short-acting beta agonist inhaler is used for quick relief during attacks.
What is Albuterol?
Asthma is an airway obstruction and can typically be...
What is reversible?
This muscle use indicates respiratory distress during an asthma attack.
What are accessory muscles?
This measures the amount of air a person can exhale in one second.
What is forced expiratory volume (FEV1)?
During an acute episode, this vital sign usually increases.
What is respiratory rate?
This drug combines a long-acting beta agonist and corticosteroid but is NOT for acute attacks.
What is Symbicort?
Name two airway changes in asthma besides bronchoconstriction.
What are increased mucus production and airway remodeling?
Retractions of muscles can be seen at these two places during distress.
What is the sternum and between the ribs?
An increase of this percentage after bronchodilator use helps confirm asthma.
What is 12%?
Nurses should always check this before and after bronchodilator administration.
What are lung sounds?
This bronchodilator class includes Ipratropium and Tiotropium.
What are anticholinergics?
This condition causes a patient with chronic asthma to have a “barrel chest.”
What is chronic hyperinflation of the lungs?
Check this part of the body for cyanosis to assess oxygenation.
What are nail beds and oral mucosa?
This tool measures how fast air is exhaled and is used for daily monitoring.
What is the peak expiratory flow meter?
This is an important step to take to prevent patient panic during an asthma attack.
What is keep patient calm and comfort them?
After using inhaled corticosteroids like Budesonide, this step is important to prevent thrush.
What is rinse mouth out?
Airway hyperresponsiveness and this remodeling contribute to what in asthma?
What is persistent airflow limitation?
Early in an asthma attack, CO2 levels do this due to increased breathing rate.
What is decrease?
The “green zone” on the peak flow meter means readings are this compared to personal best.
What is at or above personal best?
If peak flow readings fall below this percent of personal best, emergency care is needed.
What is below 50% (red zone)?
Sudden stopping of this corticosteroid can be dangerous because it must be tapered off.
What is Prednisone?