Ontario Paramedic Practice Exam

When should epinephrine be administered before using salbutamol for bronchoconstriction?

1. When the patient is unconscious

2. When they are apneic

3. After administering salbutamol

4. During the inhalation of salbutamol

The correct answer is: When they are apneic

Epinephrine should be administered before using salbutamol for bronchoconstriction when the patient is apneic. This is because epinephrine works as a bronchodilator before salbutamol, which means it helps open up the airways and improve breathing. Administering epinephrine before salbutamol allows for better absorption and effectiveness of the medication. Administering epinephrine after or during the inhalation of salbutamol may not have the same desired effect on the airways. Additionally, administering epinephrine to a patient who is unconscious may not be effective as they are not able to inhale the medication. Similarly, administering epinephrine after the use of salbutamol may not provide immediate relief for the patient.