Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 71%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute asthma attack. The nurse should expect to administer which of the following medications?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Levalbuterol. During an acute asthma attack, a short-acting beta agonist like Levalbuterol is the first-line medication to quickly relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow. It acts by relaxing the muscles in the airways, providing rapid relief of symptoms. Cromolyn (B) is a mast cell stabilizer used for prevention, not acute attacks. Budesonide (C) is an inhaled corticosteroid for long-term control. Ipratropium (D) is an anticholinergic bronchodilator used in combination with beta agonists for acute exacerbations, but Levalbuterol is more effective for quick relief.