A nurse is providing teaching to the parent of a preschooler about ways to prevent acute asthma attacks.
Test Answer
Which of the following statements by the parent should the nurse identify as understanding the teaching
Answer:
“I should keep my child indoors when I mow the yard
Explanation
Which of the following is not an important prevention tip for the nurse to include?There is no correct answer to this question since it depends on the individual child’s asthma triggers and severity. Some important prevention tips for the nurse to include may be to avoid known triggers, such as smoke, pet dander, or pollen; to use a spacer with all inhalers; to have a quick-relief inhaler on hand at all times; and to follow the child’s asthma action plan.
If your child has asthma, it’s important to be aware of the things that can trigger an asthma attack. Common triggers include:• environmental triggers such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, cold air, and strong odors• respiratory infections such as a cold or the flu• physical activity• allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander• weather changes• emotional stress• certain medications such as beta-blockersTo help avoid asthma attacks, it’s important to identify your child’s triggers and take steps to avoid them. If you’re not sure what triggers your child’s asthma, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend allergy testing.Here are some tips to help you avoid asthma triggers:• Keep your home smoke-free. If someone smokes, ask them to smoke outside.• Keep the house clean and free of dust and mold. Use
If your child has asthma, it’s important that you know how to use a rescue inhaler and when to give it to your child. A rescue inhaler is a short-acting bronchodilator that can provide relief from asthma symptoms.Here’s how to use a rescue inhaler:1. Remove the cap from the mouthpiece.2. Shake the inhaler.3. Breathe out slowly.4. Put the mouthpiece of the inhaler in your child’s mouth and have them close their lips around it.5. As your child breathes in, press down on the canister to release the medication.6. Hold your child’s breath for 10 seconds.7. Have your child breathe out slowly.8. Repeat steps 2-7 if needed.9. Replace the cap on the mouthpiece.When to give your child a rescue inhal
It is important to maintain good asthma control with daily medication for several reasons. First, uncontrolled asthma can lead to serious health complications, including hospitalization and even death. Second, uncontrolled asthma can have a major impact on quality of life, making it difficult to perform everyday activities. Finally, uncontrolled asthma can be very costly, as it often requires frequent doctor visits, hospitalizations, and missed work or school days.
The first step is to understand the symptoms of an asthma attack so that you can spot them early. These include:- Shortness of breath- Wheezing- Tightness in the chest- coughingIf you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to monitor your child’s breathing. You can do this by:- Checking to see if their chest is rising and falling evenly- Listening to their breathing for any wheezing or whistling sounds- Checking their pulse to see if it is fast or irregularIf you are concerned that your child is having an asthma attack, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
If you have asthma, it’s important to know what to do if you have an asthma attack. Asthma attacks can happen suddenly and without warning. They can be mild, moderate, or severe.If you have a mild asthma attack, you may be able to treat it at home. Sit up and take slow, deep breaths. Stay calm and try to relax. Drink a glass of water or sip a hot drink. Use your rescue inhaler as prescribed by your doctor. If your symptoms don’t improve after 10 minutes, call your doctor.If you have a moderate or severe asthma attack, you may need emergency care. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You may need oxygen and other treatments to help you breathe.
Conclusion
There are many ways to prevent acute asthma attacks in preschoolers. Some of these include keeping the child away from triggers such as smoke, dust, and pollen; using a humidifier in the child’s room; and making sure the child takes his or her medication as prescribed.
