A 7-year-old child presents with a 2-day history of wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath. His parents report he has used his albuterol inhaler every 3 hours with only temporary relief. On examination, he is tachypneic, has mild retractions, and expiratory wheezing throughout lung fields. His oxygen saturation is 92% on room air. What is the most appropriate initial management in the emergency department?
✓ Correct Answer: Option B
This child is experiencing a moderate asthma exacerbation. Initial management includes repetitive or continuous inhaled short-acting beta-agonists (albuterol) and anticholinergics (ipratropium), along with systemic corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Oxygen therapy is also indicated for hypoxemia.