Nursing Interventions
The nurse generally performs the following interventions:
Assess history. Obtain a history of allergic reactions to medications before administering medications.
Assess respiratory status. Assess the patient’s respiratory status by monitoring the severity of symptoms, breath sounds, peak flow, pulse oximetry, and vital signs.
Assess medications. Identify medications that the patient is currently taking. Administer medications as prescribed and monitor the patient’s responses to those medications; medications may include an antibiotic if the patient has an underlying respiratory infection.
Pharmacologic therapy. Administer medications as prescribed and monitor patient’s responses to medications.
Fluid therapy. Administer fluids if the patient is dehydrated.