Question

the nurse is assigned to care for a client in the icu who is diagnosed with status asthmaticus. why does the nurse include fluid intake as being an important aspect of the plan of care? (select all that apply.)
to facilitate expectoration
to combat dehydration
to relieve bronchospasm
to loosen secretions
to assist with the effectiveness of the corticosteroids

Explanation:

• To facilitate expectoration: Adequate fluid intake helps thin respiratory secretions, making it easier for the client to cough them out (expectorate).
• To combat dehydration: Status asthmaticus can cause increased respiratory rate and sweating, leading to fluid loss; fluid intake helps prevent or treat dehydration.
• To loosen secretions: Fluids thin the mucus in the airways, loosening secretions so they can be cleared more easily.
• To relieve bronchospasm: Fluid intake does not directly relieve bronchospasm (bronchodilators are used for that).
• To assist with the effectiveness of the corticosteroids: Fluid intake does not impact corticosteroid effectiveness.

Answer:

A. To facilitate expectoration, B. To combat dehydration, D. To loosen secretions