Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

For a woman with a history of asthma, what should your first drug be?

1. Albuterol

2. Epinephrine

3. Aspirin

4. Oxygen

The correct answer is: Oxygen

In the management of a woman with a history of asthma who is likely experiencing an asthma exacerbation, the appropriate initial intervention typically focuses on ensuring adequate oxygenation. Administering oxygen is crucial as it helps to alleviate any hypoxia that may be present due to compromised ventilation. While bronchodilators like albuterol are vital for opening the airways, oxygen should be prioritized to stabilize the patient and ensure that adequate oxygen levels are maintained in the blood. This foundational step is especially critical before further medications are utilized. Epinephrine may be indicated in severe cases (such as anaphylaxis or severe asthma attacks) but is usually not the first line for typical asthma presentations. Aspirin does not have a direct role in managing acute asthma symptoms and is more relevant in the context of pain relief or cardiovascular-related conditions. Thus, focusing first on oxygenation aligns with best practices in managing asthma exacerbations.