From the Guidelines
Discharge instructions for a 26-year-old patient with an asthma exacerbation should include using their inhaler as prescribed and starting a course of prednisone, typically 40-60mg daily for 5-7 days, to reduce inflammation and prevent recurrence of symptoms. The patient should continue their prescribed controller medications and use a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) like albuterol 2 puffs every 4-6 hours as needed for symptoms 1. It is essential to monitor peak flow readings twice daily if a peak flow meter is available and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen or do not improve with rescue inhaler use 1. Patients should also identify and avoid asthma triggers, such as allergens, smoke, or strong odors, and use proper inhaler technique to ensure medication effectiveness 1.
Key points to emphasize in discharge instructions include:
- Continuing prescribed controller medications
- Using a SABA like albuterol as needed for symptoms
- Completing the prescribed oral corticosteroid course
- Monitoring peak flow readings and seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen
- Avoiding asthma triggers and using proper inhaler technique
- Following up with their primary care provider or pulmonologist within 1-2 weeks to assess symptom control and adjust treatment as needed 1.
Proper medication adherence and symptom monitoring are crucial to prevent future emergency visits by maintaining open airways and reducing inflammation in the bronchial tubes 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Adults and Children 2 to 12 Years of Age: The usual dosage for adults and for children weighing at least 15 kg is 2.5 mg of albuterol (one vial) administered three to four times daily by nebulization. The use of albuterol sulfate inhalation solution can be continued as medically indicated to control recurring bouts of bronchospasm If a previously effective dosage regimen fails to provide the usual relief, medical advice should be sought immediately, as this is often a sign of seriously worsening asthma that would require reassessment of therapy.
The discharge instructions for a 26-year-old patient with an exacerbation of asthma include:
- Using an albuterol inhaler as directed, typically 2.5 mg administered three to four times daily by nebulization 2
- Starting prednisone as prescribed by the physician
- Monitoring asthma symptoms and seeking medical advice if symptoms worsen or if the previously effective dosage regimen fails to provide relief 2
- Being aware of potential side effects of albuterol, such as paradoxical bronchospasm, and seeking immediate medical attention if they occur 2
From the Research
Discharge Instructions for 26-year-old Patient with Asthma Exacerbation
- The patient should use an inhaler as prescribed by the doctor to help control asthma symptoms 3, 4.
- The patient should start taking prednisone as directed by the doctor to reduce inflammation in the airways 5, 6.
- The patient should monitor their peak flow rates and adjust their medication accordingly 3, 7.
- The patient should follow up with their doctor to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments 4, 6.
Medication Management
- The patient should take their inhaler medication as prescribed, usually 2-3 times a day 3, 4.
- The patient should take their prednisone medication as directed, usually for a short course of 5-7 days 6.
- The patient should not stop taking their medication without consulting their doctor 7.