Question

a nurse is discussing asthma complications with a client and family. what complications should the nurse include in the teaching? select all that apply.
atelectasis
status asthmaticus
thoracentesis
pertussis
respiratory failure

Explanation:

• Atelectasis: Can occur in asthma due to airway obstruction, leading to collapsed alveoli.
• Status asthmaticus: A severe, life - threatening asthma exacerbation, a complication of asthma.
• Thoracentesis: It is a diagnostic/therapeutic procedure (removing pleural fluid), not an asthma complication.
• Pertussis: A bacterial infection (whooping cough), not an asthma complication.
• Respiratory failure: Severe asthma can lead to inadequate gas exchange, resulting in respiratory failure.

Answer:

A. Atelectasis, B. Status asthmaticus, E. Respiratory failure