What is the treatment for an acute asthma attack?

The appropriate treatment for an acute asthma attack involves administering bronchodilators, providing supplemental oxygen, and assisting with inhaler use if available.

Bronchodilators, such as short-acting beta-agonists, work effectively by relaxing the muscles around the airways, facilitating easier airflow and reducing wheezing and shortness of breath. They are critical in acute asthma management. Supplemental oxygen may be necessary to maintain adequate oxygen saturation if the patient is hypoxic, ensuring that the tissues and organs receive sufficient oxygen during the respiratory distress.

Furthermore, assisting with inhaler use involves guiding the patient on the proper technique for using their metered-dose inhaler, which maximizes medication delivery to the lungs. This comprehensive approach directly addresses the primary physiological issue during an asthma attack—airway constriction and compromised oxygenation.

The other choices, while they may have some relevance in different contexts, do not effectively manage an acute asthma attack. Administering antihistamines and applying cool compresses does not address the bronchospasm that occurs during an asthma attack, as antihistamines are more effective for allergic reactions. Encouraging deep breathing and relaxation may provide some psychological comfort but is not effective in alleviating the suffocating sensation or resolving airway obstruction.