Question

unit examinations content
page 24 of 51
question 23
an agent used to dissolve thick secretions and improve respiratory difficulties is known as a(n)
a mucolytic
b bronchodilator
c corticosteroid
d antibiotic
e oxytocic

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A (mucolytic): Mucolytics are agents that break down or dissolve thick mucus secretions, which helps improve respiratory function by reducing the thickness of secretions.
• Option B (bronchodilator): Bronchodilators relax the muscles around the airways to widen them, but they don't dissolve secretions.
• Option C (corticosteroid): Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the airways, not directly dissolve secretions.
• Option D (antibiotic): Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, not to dissolve secretions.
• Option E (oxytocic): Oxytocics are related to uterine contractions and lactation, not respiratory secretions.

So the agent that dissolves thick secretions and improves respiratory difficulties is a mucolytic.

Answer:

A. mucolytic