Adult Health Nursing Quizlet Final Related

Review Adult Health Nursing Quizlet Final related questions and content

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is prescribed albuterol (salbutamol) inhaler as a rescue medication. Which of the following best describes the pharmacological action of albuterol?

  • A. Anticholinergic
  • B. Beta-adrenergic agonist
  • C. Corticosteroid
  • D. Methylxanthine
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Albuterol, also known as salbutamol, is a beta-adrenergic agonist medication commonly used for the treatment of conditions such as asthma and COPD. As a beta-adrenergic agonist, albuterol binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, causing bronchodilation, which helps to relieve bronchospasms and improve airflow to the lungs. This action leads to the relaxation of smooth muscle in the airways, thus making breathing easier for patients with COPD or asthma. Anticholinergics, corticosteroids, and methylxanthines have different mechanisms of action and are not directly related to the pharmacological action of albuterol in COPD treatment.