Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

What is the target treatment for wheezing in asthma management?

1. Antibiotics

2. Hydrocortisone

3. Salbutamol

4. Chlorphenamine

The correct answer is: Salbutamol

Salbutamol is the target treatment for wheezing in asthma management because it is a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) that works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, leading to bronchodilation. This is critical in reversing bronchoconstriction and alleviating symptoms such as wheezing. In asthma, wheezing is often a result of airway constriction due to inflammation and tightness; salbutamol quickly alleviates these symptoms, providing rapid relief. In contrast, antibiotics are not appropriate as they target bacterial infections rather than the inflammatory processes associated with asthma. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that may be used for systemic inflammation, but it does not provide immediate relief for wheezing. Chlorphenamine is an antihistamine and is typically used for allergic reactions rather than directly addressing asthma symptoms. The effectiveness and speed of action of salbutamol make it the preferred choice for immediate relief of wheezing in an asthma attack.