How should a dental nurse respond to a patient having a severe asthma attack in the clinic?

• A. Encourage the use of the patient’s inhaler (salbutamol) with a spacer, provide supplemental oxygen, call for help if there is no quick improvement, and monitor vitals; position upright and ensure airway.
• B. Wait and observe.
• C. Administer antibiotics.
• D. Place patient flat on back.

Answer: (B)

In a severe asthma attack, the priority is to relieve bronchospasm and protect the airway with immediate, active management. The patient should be guided to use their reliever inhaler (usually salbutamol) with a spacer right away, and high-flow oxygen should be provided if available to correct any drop in oxygen levels. While this is happening, keep the patient upright to ease breathing and continually monitor vital signs and their response to treatment. If there’s no quick improvement within minutes, call for emergency help without delay and be prepared to escalate care.

This approach is essential because asthma attacks respond to fast-acting bronchodilators and adequate oxygen, whereas waiting and observing does not address the airway obstruction. Antibiotics have no role in an acute asthma attack, and placing the patient flat can worsen breathing. The aim is to open the airway quickly, maintain oxygenation, and activate urgent support if needed.