Acute asthma

Question 1

Acute asthma

Answer 1

All asthma attacks = severe
Failure to respond = hospital admission

Question 2

Management

Answer 2

Salbutamol inhaler via spacer
- 2-10 puffs every 10-20 mins or PRN
OR
Salbutamol/terbutaline nebuliser
- every 20-30 mins or PRN

If symptoms persist after 15-20 mins, call 999
Repeat above and add nebulised ipratropium bromide

Question 3

Additional management

Answer 3

High flow oxygen if available
Prednisolone tablets or IV hydrocortisone
- Child under 12 = up to 3 days
- Adult = minimum 5 days (40-50mg OD)