Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Terbutaline Injection Technical Term: Injection, Terbutaline Sulfate, up to 1 mg (HCPCS Code: J3105)

Summary

Terbutaline sulfate injection is a medical procedure involving the injection of terbutaline sulfate, a medication used to relieve or prevent bronchospasms, which is the tightening of muscles surrounding the airways in the lungs. This injection helps in relaxing these muscles, making it easier to breathe.

Purpose

This procedure is primarily used to treat:

• Asthma
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Other conditions that cause bronchospasm

The goal of the injection is to provide quick relief from bronchospasms and improve breathing efficiency.

Indications

• Sudden onsets of severe asthma or COPD symptoms
• Inadequate response to other inhalers or bronchodilators
• Patients with a history of severe bronchospasms
• Emergency treatment for acute asthma episodes

Preparation

• No specific fasting required.
• Inform healthcare providers of any current medications or allergies.
• Blood pressure and heart rate may be monitored prior to the procedure.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: Healthcare provider reviews patient’s medical history and current symptoms.
2. Placement: Patient seated or lying down comfortably.
3. Injection Site Preparation: The site, usually the arm or thigh, is sterilized.
4. Injection: A sterile needle is used to inject terbutaline sulfate into the muscle or under the skin.
5. Monitoring: Patient is monitored for a short period post-injection to observe any immediate effects or adverse reactions.

No anesthesia or sedation is typically required.

Duration

The injection procedure itself takes about 5-10 minutes, but monitoring may extend the total visit time to about 30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure can be performed in various medical settings, including:

• Hospital emergency room
• Outpatient clinic
• Physician’s office

Personnel

• Medical Doctor (MD)
• Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Respiratory Therapist (in some cases)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site
• Minor allergic reactions like itching or redness

Rare Complications:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
• Elevated blood pressure
• Tremors or nervousness

Management of complications involves immediate medical intervention and supportive care.

Benefits

• Rapid relief from bronchospasm
• Increased airflow and improved breathing
• Reduced risk of emergency room visits due to severe asthma attacks

Benefits can often be realized within minutes to hours post-injection.

Recovery

• Patients may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day.
• Keep the injection site clean and monitor for signs of infection.
• Follow-up with healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.

Alternatives

• Inhalers and nebulizers (e.g., Albuterol)
  • Pros: Non-invasive, typically fewer side effects
  • Cons: May not provide rapid relief in severe cases
• Oral bronchodilators
  • Pros: Can be easier to take regularly
  • Cons: Slower onset of action

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may feel a pinch or slight sting when the injection is administered. Post-injection, minor discomfort at the site might occur but usually subsides quickly. Pain management through over-the-counter pain relievers and applying a cold pack to the injection site may be recommended.

Post-procedure, patients often report a noticeable improvement in breathing and a reduction in distress related to bronchospasm. Regular follow-up appointments might be necessary to manage ongoing respiratory conditions.