Final answer:
Use the bronchodilator first to relax and open the air passages, then use the steroid inhaler for long-term control of asthma.
Step-by-step explanation:
When using both a bronchodilator and a steroid inhaler for asthma management, it is generally recommended to use the bronchodilator first. The bronchodilator works by quickly relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe and allowing the air passages to open. This immediate effect can help in clearing the way for the steroid inhaler medication, which is used for long-term control and reducing inflammation, to reach further into the lungs and be more effective. Therefore, taking the bronchodilator beforehand optimizes the efficacy of the steroid inhaler.