A patient is prescribed ipratropium bromide and albuterol for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The patient informs the nurse that he uses the ipratropium bromide for acute attacks. The nurse concludes that:

Explanation

•Ipratropium bromide alone should not be used for the treatment of acute bronchospams. The patient should be instructed to use his albuterol for acute bronchospasms and his ipratropium bromide as a scheduled medication.

•Ipratropium, in combination with a short acting beta agonist, can be used in the treatment of acute bronchospasms.

•There is no indication that the patient does not have asthma or that he needs additional refills.

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