Asthma Management in Children (Acute)

Question 1

What are mild medication options for acute asthma?

Answer 1

SABA via spacer (and prednisolone).

Question 2

What are moderate medication options for acute asthma?

Answer 2

SABA via nebuliser and prednisolone.
SABA and ipratropium via nebuliser and prednisolone.

Question 3

What are severe medication options for acute asthma?

Answer 3

IV salbutamol.
IV aminophylline.
IV magnesium via nebuliser.
IV hydrocortisone.
Intubation and ventilation.

Question 4

How do you choose medication for acute asthma?

Answer 4

RR, HR, O2 sats, work of breathing.
Ability to complete sentences.
Confusion.

Question 5

How often do you apply treatment for acute asthma?

Answer 5

Every hour.
Step up and down as appropriate.

Chronic / maintenance treatment - inhaled steroids.
Acute treatment - oral steroids.