Long-term Control & Quick Relief Treatment Options For Asthma Patients

Respiratory System

In the United States, 12 million people suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, n.d.), and about 25 million people suffer from asthma (CDC, 2011). Since various symptoms are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and other common respiratory disorders, a single patient might be prescribed multiple drugs for treatment. Consider an 8-year-old asthmatic patient who frequently presents with acute asthma exacerbations that are triggered by seasonal allergies. As a result of his disorder, he might be prescribed albuterol to treat asthma attacks and Clarinex to treat allergic reactions. This requires you, as the advanced practice nurse, to be aware of risks of polypharmacy and patient factors that impact the effects of drugs.

This week you examine types of drugs prescribed to patients with respiratory disorders, as well as the impact of patient factors on the effects of drugs. You also explore ways to improve patient treatment plans including suggested drug therapies. Finally, you examine asthma treatment and management.

Write a 2- to 3- page paper that addresses the following:

Describe long-term control and quick relief treatment options for asthma patients, as well as the impact these drugs might have on patients.

Explain the stepwise approach to asthma treatment and management.

Explain how stepwise management assists health care providers and patients in gaining and maintaining control of the disease.

Reminder: All papers submitted include a title page, introduction, summary, and references.