What should be monitored in children receiving bronchodilator therapy?

Monitoring heart rate and respiratory rate in children receiving bronchodilator therapy is essential due to the pharmacological effects of bronchodilators, which can stimulate the heart and potentially lead to increased heart rate (tachycardia). These medications work by relaxing the airway muscles, improving airflow, and alleviating respiratory distress, which can also lead to changes in respiratory patterns.

Children can be particularly sensitive to the side effects of bronchodilators, including changes in heart rate and potential anxiety which can further impact their respiratory rate. Therefore, keeping a close watch on these vital signs helps healthcare providers assess the effectiveness of the therapy and detect any adverse effects early.

Monitoring other factors such as blood sugar levels, skin condition, or urine output, while important in other clinical scenarios, is not as directly related to the specific effects of bronchodilator therapy. The main concern with bronchodilators focuses primarily on cardiovascular and respiratory metrics, making heart rate and respiratory rate the most pertinent indicators of the child's response to treatment.