A nurse is admitting a client who is having an exacerbation of asthma. When reviewing the provider's orders, the nurse recognizes that clarification is needed for which of the following prescribed medications?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Prednisone: Systemic corticosteroids are appropriate for an acute asthma exacerbation to reduce airway inflammation and are commonly ordered. B. Metoprolol: Beta-blockers (even cardioselective ones like metoprolol) can worsen bronchospasm and precipitate respiratory deterioration during an asthma exacerbation - this order requires clarification with the provider. C. Aminophylline: Aminophylline is an older bronchodilator that can be used in certain situations for bronchodilation, though serum levels and toxicity risk must be monitored. D. Montelukast: Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist for long-term control and is not a first-line agent for acute exacerbation, but its presence on the medication list does not itself require urgent clarification during acute management.