Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

What is the first-line medication treatment for a patient experiencing an acute asthma attack?

1. Inhaled steroids

2. Oral steroids

3. Beta-adrenergic blockers

4. Bronchodilators

The correct answer is: Bronchodilators

The first-line medication treatment for a patient experiencing an acute asthma attack is bronchodilators, specifically short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABAs). These medications work quickly to relax the muscles of the airways, resulting in widened air passages and improved airflow. During an acute asthma attack, patients often experience bronchoconstriction, which makes breathing difficult. Bronchodilators effectively relieve this symptom by causing immediate dilation of the airways, providing much-needed relief. Inhaled steroids and oral steroids, while important in the long-term management of asthma and for treating inflammation, are not the immediate go-to during an acute attack because their onset of action is slower compared to bronchodilators. Beta-adrenergic blockers are generally contraindicated in asthma patients, as they can potentially cause bronchoconstriction rather than relieve it. Thus, the choice of bronchodilators is critical for rapid response during an acute episode of asthma.