Question

Your patient has asthma, newly diagnosed. His symptoms are shortness of breath, oxygen saturation of 60% on 3 liters of oxygen, anxiety, and loud breathing. He had a respiratory treatment earlier but remains symptomatic. What would be your next course of action or treatment plan for this patient?

Answer 1

The patient with severe asthma symptoms should receive immediate medical attention with increased oxygen, additional fast-acting bronchodilators, and continuous monitoring for possible advanced interventions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Your patient with asthma, who is newly diagnosed and showing severe symptoms including shortness of breath, an oxygen saturation of 60% on 3 liters of oxygen, anxiety, and loud breathing, requires immediate medical attention. Since the patient remains symptomatic even after a respiratory treatment, the next course of action should involve escalating care. This may include increasing oxygen delivery, potentially administering additional fast-acting bronchodilators via a nebulizer or an inhaler, and preparing for possible advanced interventions such as intubation if the patient's condition does not improve. The critical low oxygen saturation suggests the patient may be experiencing a severe asthma attack; therefore, continuous monitoring and readiness for immediate response are crucial. Additionally, contacting emergency services or transferring the patient to a higher level of care where they can receive advanced medical treatment could be necessary.