A school-age child who uses a short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) and an inhaled corticosteroid medication is seen in the clinic for an acute asthma exacerbation. After 4 puffs of an inhaled short-acting B2-agonist (SABA) every 20 minutes for three treatments, spirometry testing shows an FEV1 of 60% of the child's personal best. What will the primary care pediatric nurse practitioner do next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Based on the spirometry results, the child has moderate persistent asthma exacerbation. The next step would be to add an oral corticosteroid to the treatment regimen and continue the SABA every 3 to 4 hours. The child does not require admission to the hospital at this time. However, close follow-up is important to ensure improvement and prevent further exacerbations.

A School-Age Child Who Uses a Short-Acting Beta2-Agonist (SABA) and an Inhaled