When prescribing a beta-blocker to an asthmatic patient, which issue should the nurse prioritize assessment for?

When prescribing a beta-blocker to an asthmatic patient, prioritizing the assessment for bronchospasm is crucial. Beta-blockers can potentially induce bronchospasm because they may block beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the lungs, which are responsible for bronchodilation. In individuals with asthma, who already have hyperreactive airways and predisposing bronchospastic conditions, the administration of a non-selective beta-blocker may exacerbate their respiratory issues significantly.

In asthmatic patients, it is critical to ensure that any medication prescribed does not compromise airway patency or provoke a bronchial response that can lead to severe difficulty breathing. Thus, the nurse should closely monitor the patient for any signs of bronchospasm such as wheezing, shortness of breath, or changes in respiratory status after starting the medication.