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

Explanation

•This patient requires more education.

•The patient should be instructed to use his albuterol for acute bronchospasms and his ipratropium bromide as a scheduled medication.

•Ipratropium can be used in combination with a short-acting beta agonist in the treatment of acute bronchospasm. Ipratropium bromide should not be used alone for the treatment of acute bronchospasm.

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

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