A Patient Is Using a Metered-Dose Inhaler Containing Albuterol for Asthma

Multiple Choice

A patient is using a metered-dose inhaler containing albuterol for asthma. The medication label instructs the patient to administer "2 puffs every 4 hours as needed for coughing or wheezing." The patient reports feeling jittery sometimes when taking the medication, and he or she doesn't feel that the medication is always effective. Which action is outside the nurse's scope of practice?

A) Asking the patient to demonstrate the use of the inhaler
B) Assessing the patient's exposure to tobacco smoke
C) Auscultating lung sounds and obtaining vital signs
D) Suggesting that the patient use 1 puff to reduce side effects