What is the first intervention for a client with asthma experiencing wheezing?

• A. Administer a systemic antibiotic.
• B. Administer the prescribed short-acting beta-agonist (albuterol) inhaler.
• C. Administer diuretics.
• D. Call EMS immediately.

Answer: (B)

When a client with asthma has wheezing, the immediate goal is to relieve bronchoconstriction to reopen the airways. The best first action is to administer the prescribed short-acting beta-agonist inhaler (albuterol). This medication quickly relaxes the smooth muscle around the bronchi, decreasing airway resistance and improving airflow within minutes, which often reduces wheezing and shortness of breath.

Antibiotics are not indicated here because wheezing from asthma is not an infection-driven problem. Diuretics don’t address airway constriction, so they aren’t appropriate. Calling EMS might be necessary if the patient shows signs of severe distress or fails to respond to the bronchodilator, but the first, most important step is delivering the inhaled bronchodilator to relieve the acute airway constriction. After administration, reassess the patient’s breath sounds, respiratory effort, and oxygen saturation to guide further treatment.