2nd Edition
Authors : Linda Skidmore-Roth & Faith
Richardson
NCLEX-Style Pharmacology Test Bank on
Respiratory Drugs (Asthma & COPD)
focused on albuterol, salmeterol,
fluticasone, and ipratropium, strictly
aligned with Mosby’s Canadian Nursing
Drug Reference, 2nd Edition.
1.
,A client with asthma reports acute shortness of breath. Which
medication should the nurse administer FIRST?
A. Fluticasone
B. Salmeterol
C. Albuterol
D. Ipratropium
Answer: C. Albuterol
Rationale:
Albuterol is a short-acting beta₂-agonist (SABA) used for rapid
bronchodilation (rescue therapy).
• Fluticasone = maintenance corticosteroid
• Salmeterol = long-acting, NOT for acute relief
• Ipratropium = slower onset
Citation: Mosby’s Canadian Nursing Drug Reference (Albuterol –
SABA section)
2.
Which instruction is MOST important when using a fluticasone
inhaler?
A. Use during acute attacks
B. Rinse mouth after use
C. Take with food
D. Use only as needed
,Answer: B. Rinse mouth after use
Rationale:
Fluticasone (inhaled corticosteroid) can cause oral candidiasis.
Rinsing prevents this.
• Not for acute attacks
• Must be used regularly, not PRN
Citation: Mosby’s (Fluticasone – corticosteroid inhaler
precautions)
3.
Which adverse effect is MOST associated with albuterol?
A. Bradycardia
B. Tremors
C. Constipation
D. Sedation
Answer: B. Tremors
Rationale:
Albuterol stimulates beta₂ receptors → tremors, tachycardia,
nervousness.
• Bradycardia is incorrect (causes tachycardia)
Citation: Mosby’s (Albuterol – adverse effects)
, 4.
A nurse is teaching about salmeterol. Which statement by the
client indicates understanding?
A. “I will use this during an asthma attack.”
B. “This medication works quickly.”
C. “I will use this daily to prevent symptoms.”
D. “This replaces my rescue inhaler.”
Answer: C. “I will use this daily to prevent symptoms.”
Rationale:
Salmeterol is a LABA (long-acting beta₂-agonist) used for
maintenance, NOT acute relief.
Citation: Mosby’s (Salmeterol – LABA classification)
5.
Which medication is classified as an anticholinergic
bronchodilator?
A. Albuterol
B. Salmeterol
C. Fluticasone
D. Ipratropium
Answer: D. Ipratropium