MedSurg/Adult Health 1 (Respiratory Drugs)

Ch. 37 focuses on respiratory drugs used to treat conditions affecting the lungs and airways. It provides an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system and discusses common diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), explaining their underlying mechanisms. The text extensively covers various drug classifications used for these conditions, including bronchodilators like beta-adrenergic agonists, anticholinergics, and xanthine derivatives, as well as nonbronchodilating drugs such as leukotriene receptor antagonists and corticosteroids. For each drug class, the text details their mechanisms of action, indications, contraindications, adverse effects, and interactions, and concludes with important nursing considerations and patient teaching points for safe and effective medication administration.