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What action should be taken regarding theophylline levels before giving bronchodilators?

  1. Administer regardless of the theophylline level

  2. Double the dosage if the level is too low

  3. Check lab reports for recent theophylline level, if at or above maximum therapeutic level don't give

  4. Give only if the level is extremely high

The correct answer is: Check lab reports for recent theophylline level, if at or above maximum therapeutic level don't give

Bronchodilators are medications used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions. They work by relaxing the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe. Theophylline is a medication used to treat asthma and other lung diseases, but it is also known to interact with bronchodilators. Therefore, it is important to check the theophylline levels before administering bronchodilators. Administering bronchodilators regardless of the theophylline level (option A) can lead to potential adverse effects or drug interactions. Doubling the dosage of bronchodilators if the theophylline level is too low (option B) can also increase the risk of side effects. Giving bronchodilators only if the theophylline level is extremely high (option D) would result in delayed treatment for the patient. Therefore, the best course of action is to check recent lab reports for the theophylline level and to not administer bronchodilators if the level is at or above the maximum therapeutic level (option C).