A 5-year-old female with asthma is having trouble breathing and is exhaling through pursed lips. After administering oxygen, what should you do next?

In the case of a 5-year-old female with asthma who is experiencing difficulty breathing and exhaling through pursed lips, assisting with the administration of her metered dose inhaler is particularly important. This choice directly addresses the underlying issue of bronchoconstriction that asthma causes. The metered dose inhaler, which typically contains a bronchodilator, can help widen the airways, making it easier for her to breathe.

Administering oxygen provides support, but it does not address the bronchial constriction. Therefore, the next logical step after providing supplemental oxygen is to ensure that the patient receives her bronchodilator, as this can significantly improve her respiratory status. By assisting with the inhaler, you can help deliver the medication effectively, thereby potentially alleviating her immediate breathing difficulty.

The other options do not adequately prioritize the immediate need for bronchodilation in the context of an asthma exacerbation. They may play important roles in overall patient management, but assisting with the inhaler is crucial for rapidly improving her condition and addressing the specific asthma presentation.