Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

What is the expected outcome when administering albuterol for bronchoconstriction?

1. Increase in wheezing

2. Decreased airflow

3. Improvement in breathing

4. Increased anxiety

The correct answer is: Improvement in breathing

When administering albuterol for bronchoconstriction, the expected outcome is an improvement in breathing. Albuterol is a bronchodilator, which means it works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and widening the air passages to the lungs. This leads to an increase in airflow and helps alleviate symptoms associated with bronchoconstriction, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. As the bronchodilation occurs, the patient typically experiences relief from breathing difficulties, provided that the administration is timely and the underlying condition, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is responsive to the medication. This is a critical aspect of emergency medical treatment for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress due to conditions that cause bronchoconstriction. The improvements are usually accompanied by a decrease in wheezing and respiratory effort, making it a valuable intervention in emergency situations.