Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which medication class is typically involved in the management of severe persistent asthma?

1. Short-acting bronchodilators.

2. Long-acting bronchodilators.

3. Oral glucocorticoids.

4. Inhaled corticosteroids.

The correct answer is: Oral glucocorticoids.

The choice of oral glucocorticoids as the typical medication class involved in the management of severe persistent asthma is appropriate because these medications are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that help to control asthma symptoms and prevent exacerbations in severe cases. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, which is a key component of the asthma pathophysiology. In severe persistent asthma, the goal is to maintain control over the chronic inflammation and prevent acute episodes, making oral glucocorticoids an important option when other treatments are inadequate. While inhaled corticosteroids are commonly used as first-line therapy for asthma management, in cases of severe persistent asthma, oral glucocorticoids may be employed either in conjunction with inhaled corticosteroids or as the primary treatment when inhaled options do not sufficiently control the disease. Long-acting bronchodilators also play a role but are typically used as adjunct therapy rather than primary management in severe cases. Short-acting bronchodilators are primarily for quick relief and not suited for long-term management in severe asthma.