Asthma Education Flashcards

Which biologic medication targets IgE and is indicated for moderate-to-severe allergic asthma in patients aged 6 and older?

Answer: Omalizumab (Xolair)

Omalizumab is a monoclonal anti-IgE antibody approved for moderate-to-severe allergic asthma in patients ≥6 years with elevated IgE levels.

A school-age child with asthma participates in sports. Which of the following is the most appropriate recommendation?

Answer: The child should take a SABA 15-30 minutes before exercise if prone to EIB

Pre-treatment with a SABA 15-30 minutes before exercise is effective prophylaxis for EIB and allows children to participate in physical activity.

According to motivational interviewing principles used in asthma education, which approach best supports patient behavior change?

Answer: Exploring the patient's own motivation and ambivalence about self-management

Motivational interviewing explores and resolves ambivalence by drawing on the patient's intrinsic motivations, which is more effective than directive instruction.

A patient in the yellow zone of their asthma action plan should be instructed to:

Answer: Take rescue bronchodilator, reassess, and contact their provider if not improving

The yellow zone (peak flow 50-79% of personal best or worsening symptoms) calls for rescue medication use, reassessment, and provider contact if not improving.

Which indoor air quality intervention has the strongest evidence for reducing asthma morbidity in sensitized patients?

Answer: Installing high-efficiency HEPA air filters and encasing mattresses/pillows in allergen-proof covers

HEPA filtration and allergen-impermeable mattress/pillow covers significantly reduce dust mite and other allergen exposure in sensitized asthma patients.

Which of the following statements about asthma and obesity is correct?

Answer: Obesity is associated with more difficult-to-control asthma and a different inflammatory phenotype

Obesity is associated with a non-eosinophilic, neutrophilic asthma phenotype that responds less well to ICS, and weight loss generally improves asthma control.

A patient asks why they should use a spacer (valved holding chamber) with their metered-dose inhaler. What is the BEST reason to give?

Answer: A spacer increases drug delivery to the lungs and reduces oropharyngeal deposition

Spacers slow the aerosol plume, allowing more drug to reach the lower airways and reducing deposition in the mouth and throat.