What is the first intervention a nurse should implement for a child experiencing an acute asthma attack?

In the context of managing an acute asthma attack in children, the primary goal is to quickly relieve airway obstruction and improve breathing. The most immediate and effective intervention for this purpose is the administration of a bronchodilator. Bronchodilators, particularly short-acting beta-agonists, act rapidly to relax the smooth muscles of the airways, leading to dilation and increased airflow. This quick action is essential during an acute episode where breathing difficulties are present and must be addressed urgently to prevent further complications.

Corticosteroids, while very important for long-term management of asthma and addressing inflammation, do not act as quickly as bronchodilators. They take time to reduce inflammation and are usually not the first line of defense during an acute exacerbation.

Oxygen therapy may be necessary if the child is experiencing significant hypoxemia, but it is not the primary intervention. Oxygen is usually provided after bronchodilation to ensure that the airway is open and functioning effectively.

Performing a chest x-ray is generally not relevant during an acute attack since the immediate focus is on restoring normal breathing and cyanosis rather than diagnosing potential complications that would not change the immediate treatment approach.

Therefore, the administration of a bronchodilator is the correct first intervention, as it