A patient with asthma presents with wheezing. What should you prioritize administering?

In the case of a patient with asthma who is presenting with wheezing, prioritizing the administration of a bronchodilator is crucial. Asthma is characterized by bronchoconstriction, inflammation, and increased mucus production, which lead to narrowed airways and difficulty breathing. Wheezing is a common sign indicating that the airways are constricted, and immediate relief is needed to improve airflow.

A bronchodilator, such as albuterol, works by relaxing the muscles around the airways, helping to open them up and making it easier for the patient to breathe. This action directly addresses the underlying issue of airway constriction in asthma, enabling improved air movement and oxygen exchange in the lungs. Therefore, the prompt use of a bronchodilator can significantly alleviate the patient's symptoms.

While oxygen administration is important in cases where a patient is hypoxic, the immediate treatment to relieve the obstruction in this context is the bronchodilator. Intravenous fluids are not a priority in this scenario, as they do not address the respiratory distress directly related to asthma. Similarly, aspirin is not indicated for asthma management and can even exacerbate symptoms in some individuals. Thus, administering a bronchodilator is the vital intervention required in this situation to manage asthma exacerbation effectively