Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a patient experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation with severe respiratory distress and hypoxemia?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In a patient experiencing an acute asthma exacerbation with severe respiratory distress and hypoxemia, the most appropriate intervention is to initiate non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). NIPPV can help improve ventilation, decrease work of breathing, and correct hypoxemia by providing positive pressure to keep the airways open, reduce air trapping, and increase the elimination of carbon dioxide. This intervention can help improve oxygenation and reduce the need for invasive mechanical ventilation in patients with severe asthma exacerbations. Administering high-flow oxygen via nasal cannula alone may not provide enough support for patients with severe respiratory distress. Nebulized albuterol/ipratropium combination therapy and intravenous corticosteroid therapy are also important treatments for asthma exacerbations but are not the first-line interventions for patients with severe respiratory distress and hypoxemia.