A practical nurse reviews client data and notes that Mr. Barry routinely takes Advair, a combined inhaled steroid and bronchodilator. Which of the following would be a priority assessment for the nurse to perform?

A practical nurse reviews client data and notes that Mr. Barry routinely takes Advair, a combined inhaled steroid and bronchodilator. Which of the following would be a priority assessment for the nurse to perform?

• A. Cardiovascular
• B. Gastro-intestinal
• C. Neurological
• D. Respiratory

Answer: (D)

Advair combines an inhaled corticosteroid with a long-acting bronchodilator, so its main purpose is to improve airflow and reduce airway inflammation. The priority for assessment is the patient’s respiratory status. This means listening to breath sounds, noting rate and effort of breathing, checking for use of accessory muscles, measuring oxygen saturation, and watching for signs of bronchospasm or hypoxia. Also assess how well the inhaler technique is being used and whether the patient is responding to therapy. Although cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, or neurological monitoring is important in broader care, the most immediate focus with Advair is ensuring adequate ventilation and gas exchange in the lungs.

Advair combines an inhaled corticosteroid with a long-acting bronchodilator, so its main purpose is to improve airflow and reduce airway inflammation. The priority for assessment is the patient’s respiratory status. This means listening to breath sounds, noting rate and effort of breathing, checking for use of accessory muscles, measuring oxygen saturation, and watching for signs of bronchospasm or hypoxia. Also assess how well the inhaler technique is being used and whether the patient is responding to therapy. Although cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, or neurological monitoring is important in broader care, the most immediate focus with Advair is ensuring adequate ventilation and gas exchange in the lungs.