In assessing an asthma attack, which set of history items would be considered important?

In assessing an asthma attack, which set of history items would be considered important?

• A. All of the above
• B. Prior hospitalizations
• C. Intubations
• D. Last use of oral corticosteroids

Answer: (A)

Key idea: when evaluating an asthma attack, you need history clues that reveal prior severity and risk of deterioration. Prior hospitalizations and intubations show that the patient has had life-threatening or high-level care needs before, which raises the likelihood of needing close monitoring, admission, or escalation this time. Last use of oral corticosteroids signals a recent significant exacerbation and systemic involvement, indicating ongoing risk and a potential need for more aggressive or extended therapy. Together, these history items provide a fuller picture of severity and risk, so selecting all of the above is the most informative choice.

Key idea: when evaluating an asthma attack, you need history clues that reveal prior severity and risk of deterioration. Prior hospitalizations and intubations show that the patient has had life-threatening or high-level care needs before, which raises the likelihood of needing close monitoring, admission, or escalation this time. Last use of oral corticosteroids signals a recent significant exacerbation and systemic involvement, indicating ongoing risk and a potential need for more aggressive or extended therapy. Together, these history items provide a fuller picture of severity and risk, so selecting all of the above is the most informative choice.