An asthmatic 50 year old female is sitting at her desk, anxious and complaining of tightness in her chest. What is the appropriate action to take?

In this scenario, the appropriate action is to assist the patient with her prescribed inhaler. Patients with asthma often carry their own inhalers, which typically contain bronchodilators designed to offer quick relief from asthma symptoms such as chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Assisting this patient with her inhaler can provide immediate relief from her symptoms and help open the airways, making it a crucial first step in her care.

When addressing a patient experiencing asthma symptoms, it is also important to ensure that they are using their inhaler correctly, as improper technique can render the medication ineffective. By assisting her, you not only help alleviate her current symptoms but also empower her to manage her condition.

Although administering oxygen might be beneficial for some patients experiencing respiratory distress, it is generally indicated after other immediate treatments have been provided or if the patient shows signs of hypoxia. The use of an inhaler is a more direct approach for this asthmatic episode.

Calling for additional medical assistance could be warranted if the patient's condition worsens or if she does not respond to her inhaler. However, in an isolated case of mild to moderate asthma symptoms, assisting with the inhaler is typically the first recommended step.

Lastly, while providing reassurance and monitoring can be a comforting