A 28-year-old man with a history of asthma presents to the emergency department with acute shortness of breath, wheezing, and cough. He reports using his albuterol inhaler every 2 hours with minimal relief. On examination, he is tachypneic and has diffuse inspiratory and expiratory wheezes. His oxygen saturation is 92% on room air. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
Inhaled short-acting beta-agonists (albuterol) and anticholinergics (ipratropium) are the cornerstone of initial management for acute asthma exacerbations, providing rapid bronchodilation. Systemic steroids are also indicated but are not the immediate bronchodilator therapy.