Chapter 35: Antitussives, Mucolytics, And Expectorants

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  • 1/29 Questions

    A nurse is caring for a patient who has been prescribed terpin hydrate for relief of dry, nonproductive cough. Which of the following are adverse reactions that the nurse should tell the patient about?

    • Metallic taste
    • Increased salvation
    • Drowsiness
    • Parotid swelling
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About This Quiz

Explore the treatment of upper respiratory infections focusing on antitussives, mucolytics, and expectorants, and understand different types of coughs.

Medication Quizzes & Trivia

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  • 2. 

    Increases the production of respiratory secretions, which in turn appears to decreases the viscosity of the mucus

    Explanation
    An expectorant is a substance that increases the production of respiratory secretions. This increase in secretions helps to decrease the viscosity of mucus. By reducing the thickness of mucus, an expectorant makes it easier for the body to expel mucus from the respiratory system. This can be beneficial for individuals who are experiencing congestion or have a productive cough.

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  • 3. 

    A drug that aids in raising thick, tenacious mucus from the respiratory passages

    Explanation
    An expectorant is a drug that helps to loosen and expel thick, tenacious mucus from the respiratory passages. It works by increasing the production of respiratory tract fluid, which helps to thin out the mucus and make it easier to cough up. This can be beneficial for individuals with conditions such as bronchitis or a chest cold, as it helps to clear the airways and improve breathing.

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  • 4. 

    A nurse is assigned to care for a patient with a nonproductive cough.  The patient has been prescribed codeine sulfate.  In which of the following patients is codeine sulfate therapy contraindicated?

    • Patients with head injury

    • Patients with COPD

    • Premature infants

    • Patients with asthma

    Correct Answer
    A. Premature infants
    Explanation
    Codeine sulfate therapy is contraindicated in premature infants. Premature infants have an immature liver enzyme system, specifically the enzyme responsible for converting codeine to its active metabolite, morphine. This can lead to an accumulation of codeine and an increased risk of toxicity, including respiratory depression. Therefore, codeine sulfate should not be used in premature infants.

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  • 5. 

    Reduces the thickness of respiratory secretions by direct action on the mucus

    Correct Answer
    mucolytic
    Explanation
    A mucolytic is a substance that reduces the thickness of respiratory secretions by directly acting on the mucus. This means that it helps to break down and thin out the mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear from the respiratory system. Mucolytics are often used to help alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where thick and sticky mucus can make breathing difficult. By reducing the thickness of the mucus, mucolytics can help to improve airflow and make it easier for individuals to breathe.

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  • 6. 

    A nurse is caring for a patient with thick sputum.  What is the role of the nurse while caring for a patient?

    • Inform the patient to avoid taking milk and cheese

    • Instruct the patient to decrease consumption of fluids

    • Encourage the patient to take diaphragmatic breaths

    • Provide the patient with sugarless hard candy to suck on

    Correct Answer
    A. Encourage the patient to take diaphragmatic breaths
    Explanation
    The role of the nurse while caring for a patient with thick sputum is to encourage the patient to take diaphragmatic breaths. Diaphragmatic breathing helps to improve lung function and promotes the clearance of sputum from the airways. By encouraging the patient to take deep breaths using their diaphragm, the nurse can assist in improving ventilation and aiding in the removal of secretions. This can ultimately help to improve the patient's respiratory status and alleviate symptoms associated with thick sputum.

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  • 7. 

    A dry, hacking one that produces no secretions

    Correct Answer
    nonproductive cough
    Explanation
    A nonproductive cough refers to a dry, hacking cough that does not produce any secretions. This type of cough is typically caused by irritation or inflammation in the respiratory system, such as in cases of allergies or viral infections. Since there are no secretions being produced, it can be more difficult for the body to expel any irritants or mucus from the airways. Therefore, a nonproductive cough is often characterized by a persistent, dry cough that does not provide relief or clear the airways.

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  • 8. 

    The forceful expulsion of air from the lungs

    Correct Answer
    coughing
    Explanation
    Coughing refers to the forceful expulsion of air from the lungs. It is a reflex action that helps to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign substances. When the body detects an irritant or blockage in the respiratory system, it triggers a cough reflex to forcefully expel the air and clear the airways. Coughing can also be a symptom of various underlying conditions such as allergies, infections, or respiratory diseases.

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  • 9. 

    What are the adverse reactions of antitussives?

    Correct Answer
    sedation, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness
    Explanation
    Antitussives are medications used to suppress coughing. The adverse reactions listed are common side effects of antitussives. Sedation, dizziness, and lightheadedness can occur due to the central nervous system depressant effects of these medications. Nausea and vomiting may result from the gastrointestinal effects. Constipation is a known side effect of antitussives due to their ability to slow down bowel movements. Drowsiness is another common side effect that can occur with the use of antitussives.

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  • 10. 

    A drug that loosens repiratory secretions

    Correct Answer
    mucolytic
    Explanation
    A mucolytic is a type of drug that helps to loosen respiratory secretions. It works by breaking down the thick mucus in the airways, making it easier for the person to cough up and clear the secretions. This can be beneficial for individuals with conditions such as chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis, where the mucus in the lungs becomes thick and difficult to clear. By using a mucolytic, the person can breathe more easily and reduce the risk of complications associated with blocked airways.

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  • 11. 

    A drug used to relieve coughing

    Correct Answer
    antitussives
    Explanation
    Antitussives are drugs that are used to relieve coughing. They work by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain, reducing the urge to cough. These medications are commonly used to provide temporary relief from coughing caused by conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, or allergies. Antitussives can be found in various forms, including syrups, tablets, or lozenges, and are available over-the-counter or by prescription depending on the specific medication and its strength.

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  • 12. 

    What does antitussives relieve?

    Correct Answer
    nonproductive cough
    Explanation
    Antitussives are medications that relieve nonproductive coughs. Nonproductive coughs are dry, irritating coughs that do not produce any phlegm or mucus. Antitussives work by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain, providing relief from the persistent and unproductive coughing.

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  • 13. 

    Eucalyptus _________ and cough drops are useful for sore throats

    Correct Answer
    lozenges
    Explanation
    Lozenges are small medicated tablets that are designed to dissolve slowly in the mouth. They often contain ingredients such as menthol or eucalyptus oil, which have soothing properties. When someone has a sore throat, the menthol or eucalyptus in lozenges can help to numb the pain and provide temporary relief. Therefore, lozenges are a suitable option for treating sore throats, along with eucalyptus.

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  • 14. 

    What are 3 drugs that treat discomfort associated with upper respiratory infections?

    Correct Answer
    antitussives, mucolytics, expectorants
    Explanation
    Antitussives, mucolytics, and expectorants are three types of drugs that are commonly used to treat discomfort associated with upper respiratory infections. Antitussives are medications that help suppress coughing, providing relief from the irritation and discomfort caused by persistent coughing. Mucolytics, on the other hand, are drugs that work by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear out. Expectorants are medications that help promote the production and expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract, aiding in relieving congestion and discomfort. These three types of drugs target different aspects of upper respiratory infections and can provide relief from various symptoms.

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  • 15. 

    A nurse is assigned to care for a patient with bronchial irritation.  The patient is to be administered diphenhydramine HC1.  Which of the following activities should the nurse perform before administering the drug to a patients?

    • Document color and amount of any sputum present

    • Record the previous primary health care providers prescriptions

    • Take vitals every four hours

    • Assess respiratory status of patient

    Correct Answer
    A. Document color and amount of any sputum present
    Explanation
    Before administering diphenhydramine HC1 to a patient with bronchial irritation, the nurse should document the color and amount of any sputum present. This is important because sputum color and amount can provide valuable information about the patient's respiratory condition and can help the nurse monitor for any changes or worsening of symptoms. By documenting this information, the nurse can track the effectiveness of the medication and communicate any concerns or changes to the healthcare team.

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  • 16. 

    What are the 2 types of coughing?

    Correct Answer
    productive and nonproductive
    Explanation
    The two types of coughing are productive and nonproductive. Productive coughing is when mucus or phlegm is expelled from the respiratory system, helping to clear the airways. It is often associated with respiratory infections or conditions such as bronchitis. Nonproductive coughing, on the other hand, does not produce any mucus or phlegm. It is usually dry and can be caused by irritants or inflammation in the respiratory system.

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  • 17. 

    What is the most common infection in human illness

    Correct Answer
    upper respiratory infections
    Explanation
    Upper respiratory infections are the most common type of infection in human illness. These infections affect the nose, throat, sinuses, and upper airways. They are typically caused by viruses, such as the common cold or the flu, but can also be caused by bacteria. Upper respiratory infections are highly contagious and can spread easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms may include a runny nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, and mild fever. Most cases of upper respiratory infections resolve on their own with rest and supportive care, but in some cases, medical intervention may be necessary.

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  • 18. 

    What are 2 centrally acting antitussives

    Correct Answer
    codeine and dextromethorphan
    Explanation
    Codeine and dextromethorphan are both centrally acting antitussives, meaning they work in the central nervous system to suppress coughing. Codeine is an opioid that acts on certain receptors in the brain to reduce the urge to cough. Dextromethorphan, on the other hand, is a non-opioid cough suppressant that affects the cough reflex center in the brain. Both medications are commonly used to relieve cough symptoms, but they have different mechanisms of action.

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  • 19. 

    Secretions from the lower respiratory tract are expelled

    Correct Answer
    productive cough
    Explanation
    A productive cough refers to a cough that produces mucus or phlegm from the lower respiratory tract. This type of cough is usually a response to an infection or irritation in the lungs or airways. The secretions from the lower respiratory tract, such as excess mucus, are expelled through coughing, which helps to clear the airways and improve breathing. Therefore, a productive cough is a natural mechanism of the body to remove any unwanted substances or pathogens from the respiratory system.

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  • 20. 

    Nursing diagnosis checklist for mucolytics and expectorants

    Correct Answer
    inffective airway clearance related to thick tenacious mucus
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "inffective airway clearance related to thick tenacious mucus." This nursing diagnosis checklist suggests that the patient's airway clearance is not effective due to the presence of thick and tenacious mucus. This can lead to difficulty in breathing and impaired lung function. Mucolytics and expectorants are commonly used to help loosen and thin the mucus, making it easier for the patient to clear their airways. By addressing the underlying issue of thick mucus, the goal is to improve the patient's ability to effectively clear their airway and promote better respiratory function.

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  • 21. 

    Chewing ________ tablets may result in a local anesthetic effect with possible choking

    Correct Answer
    benzonatate
    Explanation
    Chewing benzonatate tablets may result in a local anesthetic effect with possible choking. Benzonatate is a medication used to relieve cough caused by the common cold or other respiratory tract infections. It works by numbing the throat and lungs, reducing the cough reflex. However, if the tablets are chewed instead of swallowed whole, the numbing effect can occur in the mouth and throat, potentially causing difficulty in swallowing and leading to choking. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions and swallow benzonatate tablets whole to avoid this potential side effect.

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  • 22. 

    Nursing diagnosis for antitussive

    Correct Answer
    risk for injury related to sedation and dizziness
    Explanation
    The nursing diagnosis for antitussive is "risk for injury related to sedation and dizziness." This means that when a patient takes antitussive medication, they may experience sedation and dizziness, which can increase the risk of injury. The sedation can cause the patient to become drowsy or have impaired coordination, while the dizziness can lead to unsteadiness or loss of balance. These side effects can make it more likely for the patient to fall or have accidents, resulting in injury. Therefore, it is important for nurses to be aware of this risk and take appropriate measures to prevent harm to the patient.

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  • 23. 

    Precautions of expectorants

    Correct Answer
    during pregnancy and lactation
    Explanation
    Expectorants are medications that help to thin and loosen mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up. However, during pregnancy and lactation, it is important to exercise caution when using expectorants. This is because some expectorants may contain ingredients that could potentially harm the developing fetus or be passed on to the baby through breast milk. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.

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  • 24. 

    What are some precautions of antitussives?

    Correct Answer
    pregancy, labor, asthmatic attack, head injury, hypertrophy
    Explanation
    These are some precautions of antitussives. Antitussives should be used with caution during pregnancy as their safety has not been fully established. They should also be avoided during labor as they can suppress the cough reflex which is important for clearing the airways during childbirth. In patients with a history of asthmatic attacks, antitussives may worsen their condition by suppressing coughing which helps to remove mucus and irritants from the airways. Similarly, antitussives should be avoided in patients with head injuries as they can interfere with the detection of increased intracranial pressure. Lastly, antitussives should be used cautiously in patients with hypertrophy as they can further obstruct the airways.

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  • 25. 

    What are some contraindications of mucolytics and expectorants?

    Correct Answer
    potassium iodide is contraindicated in pregnancy
    Explanation
    Potassium iodide is contraindicated in pregnancy because it can potentially harm the developing fetus. It may lead to thyroid dysfunction and can interfere with the normal development of the baby's thyroid gland. Therefore, it is advised to avoid the use of potassium iodide during pregnancy to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.

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  • 26. 

    What does peripherally acting drugs do?

    Correct Answer
    act by anesthetizing stretch receptors in the respiratory passages thereby decreasing coughing
    Explanation
    Peripherally acting drugs work by numbing or anesthetizing the stretch receptors present in the respiratory passages. This action helps in reducing the sensation of coughing.

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  • 27. 

    What are opioid antitussives contraindicated with?

    Correct Answer
    premature infants and during labor of a premature baby
    Explanation
    Opioid antitussives are contraindicated with premature infants and during labor of a premature baby. This means that these medications should not be used in these situations. The use of opioid antitussives can have harmful effects on premature infants and during the labor process of a premature baby. It is important to avoid these medications in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the infants.

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  • 28. 

    What is something used to treat nasal congestion?

    Correct Answer
    eucalyptus
    Explanation
    Eucalyptus is a natural remedy that is commonly used to treat nasal congestion. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, which can help to relieve congestion and open up the nasal passages. Eucalyptus can be used in various forms, such as essential oil, steam inhalation, or in over-the-counter nasal sprays or chest rubs. Its strong aroma also helps to clear the airways and promote easier breathing. Overall, eucalyptus is an effective option for managing nasal congestion symptoms.

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  • 29. 

    What is mucolytics used to treat?

    Correct Answer
    pneumonia, bonchitis, tracheobronchitis, cystic fibrosis, complications associated with surgery, chest conditions, mucus obstruction, acetaminophen overdose
    Explanation
    Mucolytics are medications used to treat various respiratory conditions that involve excessive mucus production or mucus obstruction. These conditions include pneumonia, bronchitis, tracheobronchitis, cystic fibrosis, and chest conditions. Mucolytics can help to break down and thin the mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways and improve breathing. They can also be used to treat complications associated with surgery, where mucus obstruction may occur. In addition, mucolytics have been found to be effective in treating acetaminophen overdose, as they can help to reduce liver damage caused by the toxic byproducts of acetaminophen metabolism.

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  • Current Version
  • Mar 18, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Aug 09, 2009
    Quiz Created by
    Nenegto04
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