Which is the priority nursing responsibility during an acute asthma attack?

• A. Position patient in High Fowler's
• B. Provide antibiotics
• C. Monitor blood pressure hourly
• D. Assess/maintain open airway (priority)

Answer: (D)

Airway patency is the top priority in an acute asthma attack because, without a clear airway, ventilation and oxygenation rapidly decline regardless of other interventions. The bronchospasm, airway swelling, and mucus buildup can quickly obstruct airflow, so the nurse must assess and maintain an open airway as the immediate focus—this includes monitoring for signs of obstruction, ensuring the patient is positioned to optimize breathing, and promptly delivering treatments such as bronchodilators and supplemental oxygen per protocol to improve airflow and oxygen saturation. Antibiotics don’t treat an acute asthma flare and aren’t indicated unless an infection is present, while constant BP monitoring, though part of ongoing care, does not address the life-threatening airway obstruction. Positioning can aid breathing but does not directly guarantee airway patency in the face of bronchospasm, so maintaining an open airway remains the priority.