Question

A 35-year-old woman with known asthma presents to ED with severe shortness of breath. She is speaking in phrases, RR 32 breaths/min, HR 120 beats/min, SpO₂ 90% on room air and has widespread wheeze. What is the most appropriate immediate pharmacological management?

Accepted Answer

Frequent high-dose salbutamol via nebuliser with oxygen plus systemic corticosteroids

Answer

Intermittent low-dose salbutamol puffer only

Answer

Continuous IV hydrocortisone infusion without bronchodilators

Answer

Oral prednisolone alone

Answer

Immediate intubation and paralysis without trial of bronchodilators

Practice question

A 35-year-old woman with known asthma presents to ED with severe shortness of breath. She is speaking in phrases, RR 32 breaths/min, HR 120 beats/min, SpO₂ 90% on room air and has widespread wheeze. What is the most appropriate immediate pharmacological management?