Chapter 31: Nasal Congestion and Cough

Question 1

Common Cold

Answer 1

viral infection of the respiratory tract

Incubation time is about 5
days, they will manifest as a cold. Person contagious best after the 3rd day. It can last 7 days on average.

Hand hygiene is the most indicated

Question 2

Prescription antitussive agents (Dextromethorphan)

Answer 2

prototype, its ingredient is in most OTC drugs

Question 3

Prescription antitussive agents (Benzonatate)

Answer 3

Acts by anesthetizing stretch
receptors in the respiratory passages, thereby decreasing coughing

Question 4

Prescription antitussive agents (codeine / hydrocodone)

Answer 4

opioid narcotics, have antitussive effects in relatively small doses by centrally acting

Question 5

Prescription antitussive agents (adverse reactions)

Answer 5

codeine is converted to morphine, and the potential for respiratory depression and death may occur

Caution in administering in pt with head injuries and increased
intracranial pressure, acute abdominal disorders, seizure disorders

Question 6

Prescription antitussive agents (pt teaching)

Answer 6

Alcohol Increases central nervous system depression

St. John’s wort, tryptophan, monoamine oxidase inhibitors,
and serotonin reuptake inhibitors increase the risk of serotonin syndrome

Question 7

Nasal Decongestants

Answer 7

Pseudoephedrine - prototype, produces vasoconstriction, and shrinks nasal mucosa membranes, resulting in decreased nasal congestion

Question 8

Nasal Decongestants (med interactions that increase effect)

Answer 8

Cocaine, digoxin, general anesthetics, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, other
adrenergic drugs

Question 9

Nasal Decongestants (non-med interactions)

Answer 9

Caffeine and the herb coleus can enhance the adverse effects of pseudoephedrine

Tannin-containing herbs such as
green or black tea or witch hazel may decrease the absorption and effectiveness of the drug

Question 10

Nasal Decongestant (pt teaching)

Answer 10

Meds relieve symptoms, but do not cure condition

Consuming adequate fluids,
humidification of the environment, and throat lozenges can relieve mouth dryness
and cough

Blow the nose gently before instilling nasal solutions or
sprays

Question 11

Dextromethorphan (use)

Answer 11

relieve dry, nonproductive cough

Question 12

Dextromethorphan (dosing / overdosing)

Answer 12

Dosing: liquid and lozenges, max daily dose of 120mg / day
Overdosing: can produce hallucinations, and disassociation

Question 13

Dextromethorphan (assessment)

Answer 13

Assess frequency and productivity of cough, lung sounds, amount and type of sputum reduced

Question 14

Dextromethorphan (pt teaching)

Answer 14

increased intake can lead
to increased central nervous system impairment.

Take cough syrups undiluted

avoid eating and drinking for approximately 30 minutes

Question 15

Guaifenesin (uses)

Answer 15

Used with productive coughs, guaifenesin loosens mucus from the respiratory tract

Mucinex is prototype

Question 16

Guaifenesin (assessment)

Answer 16

assesses for improvement in cold symptoms, specifically reduction of cough episodes and increased ability to mobilize secretions.

The nurse assesses for hypersensitivity to the drug and for signs of headache, nausea,
and vomiting

Question 17

Guaifenesin (pt teaching)

Answer 17

If any adverse effects develop stop the drug and reach out to your provider