In managing a patient with asthma, what should the nurse practitioner avoid when the patient has increased use of albuterol?

In managing a patient with asthma, if the patient is experiencing increased use of albuterol, it is crucial to recognize that this typically indicates poor asthma control. In such cases, the current management strategy may not be effective. Adding an inhaled long-acting beta2-agonist is a step that should be considered with caution.

The reason this is the correct choice is that increased reliance on a quick-relief medication like albuterol suggests that the patient's asthma is not well-controlled. Before escalating treatment to include long-acting beta2-agonists, it is essential to assess the patient's overall condition and ensure that their asthma management plan reflects their current needs. This may involve reviewing and adjusting their inhaled corticosteroid therapy instead, as the goal is often to improve control before resorting to additional bronchodilators.

In contrast, administering the Asthma Control Test questionnaire, conducting a spirometric assessment, or performing a complete symptom assessment are all essential components of evaluating asthma control and ensuring that the patient receives appropriate care tailored to their needs. These actions help to clarify the severity of the patient's current symptoms and guide future treatment directions. Therefore, they are vital steps and should not be avoided in this context.