What is the action of mucolytics in respiratory therapy?

Mucolytics play a vital role in respiratory therapy by breaking down the structure of mucus. This action leads to a decrease in the thickness and viscosity of mucus, making it easier for patients to expel it through coughing or suctioning. By breaking down mucus, mucolytics facilitate better airway clearance and improve respiratory function in conditions where mucus production is excessive or abnormally thick, such as chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis.

The other options are not aligned with the function of mucolytics. Increasing airway obstruction would be counterproductive in respiratory therapy, while vasodilation and bronchial constriction are actions associated with different classes of medications, specifically those that target blood vessels or bronchial tissues, respectively. Thus, the primary action of mucolytics is effectively captured by the choice that indicates their ability to break down mucus.