Question

A 28-year-old woman with asthma presents to A&E with severe breathlessness. She is speaking in short phrases, respiratory rate 30/min, heart rate 120/min, PEFR 35% of best, oxygen saturation 92% on air. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Nebulised Salbutamol with high-flow oxygen, systemic corticosteroids and close monitoring in hospital

Answer

Oral Salbutamol and oral Prednisolone at home

Answer

High-dose inhaled Salbutamol via spacer and arrange routine GP review

Answer

Start long-acting beta agonist inhaler and discharge

Answer

Give antibiotics and discharge with safety-netting

Practice question

A 28-year-old woman with asthma presents to A&E with severe breathlessness. She is speaking in short phrases, respiratory rate 30/min, heart rate 120/min, PEFR 35% of best, oxygen saturation 92% on air. What is the most appropriate initial management?