Upper Respiratory Drugs - General

Question 1

Use of upper respiratory tract agents in children:

Nursing considerations

Answer 1

Caution due to adverse effects: sedation, confusion, dizziness

Do not give under 4 y/o

Caution in 4-6 y/o

Non-drug measures

Question 2

What are non-drug measures when upper respiratory symptoms?

Answer 2

Oral fluids

Humidification

Control exposure to smoke, allergens, irritants

Wash hands to prevent infection

Question 3

Use of upper respiratory tract agents in adults:

Nursing considerations

Answer 3

potential accidental overdose

non-drug measures

no established safety in pregnancy and lactation

Question 4

Use of upper respiratory tract agents in older adults: Nursing considerations

Answer 4

more likely to develop adverse effects: sedation, confusion, dizziness (can affect mobility and balance)

renal and hepatic impairment

start low and go slow with dose