What should be done if a patient experiences nausea and anxiety during albuterol nebulizer treatment?

• A. Instruct the patient to breathe less deeply during the treatment
• B. Change to a mouthpiece
• C. Discontinue therapy and report findings to the doctor
• D. Continue current therapy

Answer: (C)

When a patient experiences nausea and anxiety during albuterol nebulizer treatment, discontinuing therapy and reporting the findings to the doctor is the most appropriate course of action. This response is crucial because it prioritizes the patient's safety and overall well-being. Nausea and anxiety could indicate that the patient is reacting poorly to the nebulized medication or the treatment process itself, which may require further evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the cause and decide on a subsequent plan of action.

In addition, by reporting these symptoms to the doctor, the healthcare provider can assess whether a change in medication, dosage, or treatment method is necessary. This proactive approach can help prevent further discomfort and ensure that the patient receives the most effective care tailored to their needs.

Other strategies, such as instructing the patient to breathe less deeply, changing to a mouthpiece, or continuing therapy as is, may not adequately address the discomfort the patient is experiencing and could potentially worsen the situation. It’s essential to take symptoms seriously and act appropriately to safeguard the patient's health during nebulizer treatments.