Question

Your adult asthma patient is experiencing a severe attack characterized by inspiratory and expiratory wheezes with potential airway compromise due to laryngospasm. Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate after oxygen therapy is applied?

A. 2.5 to 5 mg of albuterol solution mixed with 3 mL of 0.9 normal saline and nebulized with 6-8 lpm of oxygen

B. Rapid sequence intubation with sedation

C. 0.31 mg of levalbuterol nebulized with 6-8 lpm of oxygen

D. 0.3-0.5 mL (1:1000) of epinephrine delivered IM/SC; repeat in 15 minutes if needed

Answer 1

The most appropriate intervention after oxygen therapy for a severe asthma attack with potential airway compromise due to laryngospasm is 0.3-0.5 mL (1:1000) of epinephrine delivered IM/SC; repeat in 15 minutes if needed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the presented scenario, the most appropriate intervention after applying oxygen therapy would be option D: 0.3-0.5 mL (1:1000) of epinephrine delivered IM/SC; repeat in 15 minutes if needed.

Epinephrine is commonly used in severe asthma attacks to relieve airway constriction and laryngospasm. It acts as a bronchodilator, opening up the airways and allowing easier airflow. IM (intramuscular) or SC (subcutaneous) delivery is used when there is potential airway compromise.