Upper Respiratory Agents Flashcards
What are antihistamines?
drugs that block the release or action of histamine, a chemical released during inflammation that increases secretions and narrows airways
What are antitussives?
drugs that block the cough reflex
What are decongestants?
drugs that decrease the blood flow to the upper respiratory tract and decrease the overproduction of secretions
What are expectorants?
drugs that increase productive cough to clear the airways
What are mucolytics?
drugs that increase or liquefy respiratory secretions to aid the clearing of the airways
What is rebound congestion?
a process that occurs when the nasal passages become congested as the effect of a decongestant drug wears off
patients tend to use more drug to decrease the congestion, and a vicious circle of congestion, drug, and congestion develops, leading to abuse of decongestant
aka rhinitis medicamentosa
What is rhinitis medicamentosa?
reflex rxn to vasoconstriction caused by decongestants
a rebound vasodilation that often leads to prolonged overdose of decongestants
aka rebound congestion
Which adverse effects from upper respiratory agents effect children the most?
sedation
confusion
dizziness
Should we give upper respiratory drugs to children under 4 years old?
No, and show caution ages 4-6
What are some non-drug measures that we can recommend for children to help with upper respiratory issues?
Oral fluids
Humidification
Control exposure to smoke, allergens, irritants
Wash hands to prevent infection
Why are adults at higher risk for accidental overdose with upper respiratory agents?
B/c they don’t check the ingredient lists on labels and can end up on multiple of the same drug causing overdose
Is it safe for pregnant and lactating women to use upper respiratory agents?
There is no established scientific safety
What are older adults at higher risk for when taking upper respiratory agents?
Sedation
Confusion
Dizziness that affects mobility and balance
What are nursing considerations/interventions for older adults taking upper respiratory agents?
Safety measures for CNS effects
Monitor for Renal/hepatic impairment
Start low, Go slow
What antitussive comes in a little pearl pill?
Benzonatate
