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Acute severe asthma red flags — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardRespiratory TherapeuticsAcute severe asthma red flagsGPhC CRA

A 19-year-old arrives at the pharmacy with asthma. She cannot complete a sentence, respiratory rate is 30/min, oxygen saturation is 91% and she is becoming exhausted despite repeated salbutamol. Which response is most appropriate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Call 999 now and assist reliever use while following emergency instructions

Inability to complete sentences is an acute-severe feature; oxygen saturation below 92% and exhaustion are life-threatening features. Emergency transfer must not be delayed for a trial of treatment or a routine appointment. Call 999 immediately, keep the patient under observation and assist with the appropriate rapid-acting bronchodilator while following emergency instructions. Sedating treatment and exertion are unsafe.

Reference: BTS/NICE/SIGN asthma pathway: Acute asthma in adults: https://www.rightdecisions.scot.nhs.uk/asthma-pathway-bts-nice-sign-sign-244/managing-acute-asthma/management-of-acute-asthma-in-adults/acute-asthma-in-adults/