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Acute severe asthma — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyRespiratory TherapeuticsAcute severe asthmaGPhC CRA

A 30-year-old woman with asthma asks for salbutamol because she has used 12 puffs today, cannot finish sentences and has a peak flow of 45% of her best. Her lips are not blue, but she is frightened. What would you advise the patient?

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

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Correct answer: A — Call 999 and help her use salbutamol via spacer while awaiting emergency care

Inability to complete sentences, high reliever use and peak flow below 50% suggest acute severe asthma. Emergency care is required and salbutamol via spacer can be used while awaiting help. Lack of cyanosis does not make the attack safe. Delayed review or cough treatment would be unsafe.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF