In asthma exacerbation, which sequence is correct?

• A. Assess airway → Oxygen → Bronchodilator → Reassess
• B. Oxygen → Assess airway → Bronchodilator → Reassess
• C. Bronchodilator → Oxygen → Assess airway → Reassess
• D. Reassess → Assess airway → Bronchodilator → Oxygen

Answer: (A)

In an asthma flare, the priority is to secure the patient’s airway and oxygenation, then relieve the bronchospasm, and finally evaluate the response.

Start by assessing airway and breathing to gauge severity and safety of interventions. Then deliver supplemental oxygen to correct any low oxygen levels and keep saturation in the target range. Once oxygenation is stabilized, administer a rapid-acting bronchodilator to open the airways and relieve obstruction. After treatment, reassess the patient’s clinical status, vitals, and oxygen saturation to determine if more therapy is needed or further steps are required.

Providing oxygen first ensures the patient isn’t only treated for bronchospasm but also adequately oxygenated, which helps the bronchodilator work more effectively and reduces the risk of hypoxemia during treatment. Delaying oxygen or skipping reassessment can lead to missed deterioration or insufficient response to therapy.