Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 71%
Simulated
Which medication should the nurse anticipate being used first in the emergency department for relief of severe respiratory distress related to asthma?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Albuterol, a short-acting bronchodilator, provides rapid relief of asthma symptoms by relaxing airway muscles. Prednisone is slower-acting, ipratropium is an adjunct, and fluticasone is for long-term control, not acute distress.