During inhalation, Simon begins to shake. What should the practical nurse do?

During inhalation, Simon begins to shake. What should the practical nurse do?

• A. Provide Simon with a warm blanket
• B. Reassure Simon that this is a side effect of the Ventolin
• C. Stop the inhalation immediately
• D. Reduce the flow of air or oxygen in the inhalation

Answer: (B)

Shaking during inhalation with Ventolin points to a common, temporary side effect of inhaled beta-agonist bronchodilators. Salbutamol can stimulate skeletal muscles and the sympathetic system, producing tremors that are typically mild and fade with time or with subsequent doses. The best action is to reassure the patient that this tremor is a known, transient effect of the medication and to continue the treatment as prescribed, while closely monitoring his breathing, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. It’s also important to check that the inhaler technique is correct so the medication is delivering properly. Providing comfort as needed is fine, but stopping the inhalation or reducing the flow would lessen the bronchodilator effect and isn’t appropriate. If the tremor is severe, lasts long, or is accompanied by chest pain, palpitations, or signs of hypoxia, escalate for medical assessment.

Shaking during inhalation with Ventolin points to a common, temporary side effect of inhaled beta-agonist bronchodilators. Salbutamol can stimulate skeletal muscles and the sympathetic system, producing tremors that are typically mild and fade with time or with subsequent doses. The best action is to reassure the patient that this tremor is a known, transient effect of the medication and to continue the treatment as prescribed, while closely monitoring his breathing, heart rate, and oxygen saturation. It’s also important to check that the inhaler technique is correct so the medication is delivering properly. Providing comfort as needed is fine, but stopping the inhalation or reducing the flow would lessen the bronchodilator effect and isn’t appropriate. If the tremor is severe, lasts long, or is accompanied by chest pain, palpitations, or signs of hypoxia, escalate for medical assessment.