Chapter 15: Upper Respiratory Agents

Chapter 15: Upper Respiratory Agents

Complete Chapter Questions With Answers

Sample Questions Are Posted Below

MULTIPLE CHOICE

1. A patient tells a nurse practitioner (NP) that several coworkers have upper respiratory infections and asks about the best way to avoid getting sick. The NP should recommend which of the following?

ANS:  B

Hand washing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of viral upper respiratory illness (VURI). Echinacea has not been shown to be effective in preventing VURI. Zinc gluconate may decrease the duration of a VURI if taken within 24 hours of onset, but it does not prevent infection. Normal saline irrigation is helpful for symptomatic relief after a VURI has begun.

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Applying (Application)                           REF:   189

2. A patient comes to the clinic with a 3-day history of fever and a severe cough that interferes with sleep. The patient asks the NP about using a cough suppressant to help with sleep. The NP should:

ANS:  B

It is important to determine the underlying disorder that is causing the cough to rule out serious causes of cough. The NP should obtain a thorough history before prescribing any treatment. A narcotic antitussive may be used after serious causes are ruled out. Guaifenesin may be used to make nonproductive coughs more productive. Antibiotics are indicated only for a proven bacterial infection.

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Applying (Application)                           REF:   192

3. An NP prescribes azelastine for a patient who has allergic rhinitis. The NP will teach the patient that this drug:

ANS:  A

Azelastine is a topical antihistamine with few adverse systemic side effects. Patients may experience relief from symptoms within 30 minutes. Decongestants can cause rebound congestion if withdrawn suddenly. Topical antihistamines rarely cause systemic side effects.

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Applying (Application)                           REF:   198

4. A parent asks an NP which over-the-counter medication would be best to give to a 5-year-old child who has a viral respiratory illness with nasal congestion and a cough. The NP should recommend which of the following?

ANS:  B

Nonpharmacologic treatments are recommended for children younger than 6 years. Adequate hydration can decrease cough, thin secretions, and hydrate tissues. A teaspoon of honey has been shown to be effective in reducing cough in small children. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that dries nasal secretions but does not aid in decongestion. Sudafed and Robitussin are not recommended in children younger than 6 years.

DIF:    Cognitive Level: Applying (Application)                           REF:   198