75. A child is hospitalized for moderate respiratory distress caused by asthma. A physician orders a corticosteroid. A nurse knows that the main rationale for this medication is to:
75. A child is hospitalized for moderate respiratory distress caused by asthma. A physician orders a corticosteroid. A nurse knows that the main rationale for this medication is to:
Test-Taking Tip
Corticosteroids are used in the treatment of many diseases; do not let the diagnosis of asthma fool you into choosing the answer option that is specific to the lungs. Two of the answer options are specific to respiration and can be eliminated; only one option has a general action—"reduce inflammation"—which is the best response.
Content Area: Child Health, Respiratory; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Planning; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Expected Effects/Outcomes
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Answer 1 is incorrect because a corticosteroid is not given to improve circulation. Answer 2 is incorrect because albuterol, not a corticosteroid, is administered to cause bronchodilation during asthma attacks. Answer 3 is correct because corticosteroids are used in the treatment of acute asthma exacerbation to reduce inflammation of the airways. Answer 4 is incorrect because a corticosteroid is given to reduce inflammation, not thin secretions.
