Paramedic National Registry Practice

If a child shows signs of distress with a history of asthma, which therapy should be prioritized?

1. Oxygen therapy alone

2. Education about inhaler usage

3. Administering bronchodilators

4. Calling for additional medical support

The correct answer is: Administering bronchodilators

In the context of a child showing signs of respiratory distress with a history of asthma, administering bronchodilators is prioritized because these medications are specifically designed to relieve bronchospasm, which is a narrowing of the airways commonly associated with asthma. Bronchodilators work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, allowing them to open up and improve airflow to the lungs, which is critical in alleviating symptoms of distress such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. While oxygen therapy can be important, it primarily addresses hypoxia (low oxygen levels) but does not treat the underlying airway constriction. Education about inhaler usage is valuable for long-term self-management but does not provide immediate relief during an acute episode of distress. Calling for additional medical support is a necessary step if the situation does not improve or worsens, but timely intervention with bronchodilators is essential to stabilize the child's condition and rapidly alleviate respiratory distress. Thus, in an acute setting where the child is in distress, the immediate use of bronchodilators is the most effective action to take.