Asthma

Question 1

What should you always do when providing an asthma inhaler over-the-counter?

Answer 1

Record sale in patient’s history to enable monitoring of their use of reliever medications which may indicate a worsening of their asthma.

Question 2

Does asthma have a PSA Self-Care Card?

Answer 2

Yes:
1. Asthma
2. Asthma Medications

Question 3

What are the 2 options for asthma relievers over-the-counter?

Answer 3

1. Salbutamol (Ventolin® CFC-free inhalers) 100mcg/dose
2. Terbutaline (Bricanyl® turbuhaler) 500mcg/dose

Question 4

What are the general directions Salbutamol (Ventolin® CFC-free inhaler) 100mcg/dose?

Answer 4

Shake well and inhale 1 to 2 puffs as required, or 5 to 15 minutes before exercise; repeat 3 to 4 times a day as necessary.

Question 5

What are the directions for Terbutaline (Bricanyl® turbuhaler) 500mcg/dose?

Answer 5

Inhale 1 to 2 puffs as required, or 5 to 15 minutes before exercise; repeat 3 to 4 times a day as necessary.

Question 6

Is Salbutamol (Ventolin® CFC-free inhaler) 100mcg/dose safe in pregnancy?

Answer 6

Yes

Question 7

Is Salbutamol (Ventolin® CFC-free inhaler) 100mcg/dose safe in breastfeeding?

Answer 7

Yes

Question 8

Is Terbutaline (Bricanyl® turbuhaler) 500mcg/dose 100mcg/dose safe in pregnancy?

Answer 8

Yes

Question 9

Is Terbutaline (Bricanyl® turbuhaler) 500mcg/dose 100mcg/dose safe in breastfeeding?

Answer 9

Yes

Question 10

What should you always recommend when a patient is using an MDI?

Answer 10

Always recommend a spacer

Question 11

How should patients care for their spacer?

Answer 11

Wash in warm water and dish- washing detergent; do not rinse. Allow to air dry (do not dry with a cloth as this can make medication stick to the spacer making it less effective). Check for cracks and ensure that the valve is functioning.

Question 12

What are 6 specific questions to ask patients when counselling on asthma over-the-counter?

Answer 12

1. Have you seen your doctor regarding your asthma in the last 12 months?
2. How often are you finding you need to use your inhaler/has this changed lately?
3. How long does one inhaler last you?
4. How is your asthma control at the moment: Is it affecting your exercise or sleep?
5. Are you using a preventative inhaler: How often/How are you using it?
6. Do you have an Asthma Action Plan?