Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)

Question 1

Albuterol classification

Answer 1

Bronchodilator, beta-2 selective, sympathetic agonist

Question 2

Albuterol action

Answer 2

1. Relaxes bronchial and uterine smooth muscle by acting on beta adrenergic receptors
2. Causes potassium influx into cell

Question 3

Albuterol onset and duration

Answer 3

1. 5-15 min

2. 3-6 hrs

Question 4

Albuterol indications

Answer 4

1. Wheezing, allergic reactions, asthma, COPD
2. Suspected hyperkalemia
3. Crush injury syndrome

Question 5

Albuterol contraindications

Answer 5

Hypersensitivity

Question 6

Albuterol cautions

Answer 6

1. Patients with CVD
2. Patients taking tricyclics
3. The elderly generally require lower dose
4. Monitor heart rate
5. Listen to lungs before and after treatment
6. beta blockers may blunt the effect

Question 7

Albuterol dosage and administration

Answer 7

Adult: 2.5mg in 3ml NS SVN
Pediatric: blow by if < 5 yo
a. >6mo 2.5mg in NS SVN
b. <6mo 1.25mg in 3ml NS SVN

Question 8

Albuterol administration

Answer 8

Instruct patient to:

1. clear nasal passages and throat
2. Breath and expel as much air as possible
3. Place in mouth and inhale deeply

Question 9

Albuterol adverse reactions

Answer 9

Tremor, nervousness, dizziness, headache, tachycardia, collocations, hypertension, nausea and vomiting, and ventricular arrhythmias

Question 10

Albuterol referencing protocol

Answer 10

1. Shock (anaphylaxis)
2. Respiratory
3. Medical (renal dialysis hyperkalemia)
4. Environmental (toxic inhalations and allergic reaction)
5. Traumatic injuries (crush injury)