CEA Nursing Practice Exam

What is the appropriate treatment for acute exacerbations in patients already on dual therapy for asthma?

1. Increase the corticosteroid dose

2. Start a long acting beta agonist

3. Administer systemic corticosteroids

4. Give supplemental oxygen

The correct answer is: Administer systemic corticosteroids

When managing acute exacerbations in patients who are already on dual therapy for asthma, administering systemic corticosteroids is considered the most appropriate treatment. This is because systemic corticosteroids effectively reduce airway inflammation during an exacerbation, leading to improved breathing and decreased asthma symptoms. They act quickly to control the inflammatory response and are essential in cases where patients experience significant worsening of their asthma. While increasing the corticosteroid dose may seem like a relevant option, systemic corticosteroids are specifically recommended during acute exacerbations for their faster and more comprehensive impact on inflammation. Starting a long-acting beta agonist is not typically indicated during an acute exacerbation since these medications are primarily used for long-term control rather than for immediate relief in an acute scenario. Administering supplemental oxygen may be necessary if the patient is hypoxic, but it does not address the root cause of the exacerbation, which is primarily inflammation and bronchoconstriction. Oxygen is supportive but not a definitive treatment for the exacerbation itself. Therefore, systemic corticosteroids are the best choice for effectively managing acute exacerbations in these patients, helping to swiftly alleviate the inflammatory component underlying the acute episode.