A nurse in a clinic sees a client who has an acute asthma exacerbation. Which of the following medications should reduce the symptoms?

The correct answer is C: Albuterol via jet nebulizer. Albuterol is a short-acting beta agonist bronchodilator that provides quick relief by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways during an acute asthma exacerbation. It works rapidly to open up the airways, making breathing easier for the client. Budesonide (A) is a corticosteroid that is used for long-term management and prevention of asthma symptoms, not for immediate relief. Cromolyn (B) is a mast cell stabilizer that is used for preventing asthma attacks, not for treating acute exacerbations. Montelukast (D) is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that is used for long-term control of asthma symptoms, not for immediate relief.