Adult Health 1 Final Exam Related

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During a severe asthma exacerbation in a client, what is the nurse's priority?

  • A. Administer a rescue inhaler immediately
  • B. Prepare for intubation
  • C. Encourage deep breathing exercises
  • D. Monitor oxygen saturation levels
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: During a severe asthma exacerbation, the nurse's priority is to administer a rescue inhaler immediately. This action helps open the airways and improve breathing, which is crucial in managing the exacerbation. Choice B, preparing for intubation, would be considered if the client's condition deteriorates and they are unable to maintain adequate oxygenation even after using the rescue inhaler. Encouraging deep breathing exercises (Choice C) may not be appropriate during a severe exacerbation as the client may struggle to breathe. While monitoring oxygen saturation levels (Choice D) is important, the immediate administration of a rescue inhaler takes precedence to address the acute breathing difficulty.