What should be the nurse's top priority when managing a child with asthma?

Ensuring the availability of rescue inhalers and educating on their use is critical for managing a child with asthma. In an emergency, a rescue inhaler, often containing a fast-acting bronchodilator, can provide quick relief from acute asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. This makes it essential for children with asthma to always have their rescue inhalers readily accessible.

Education on the correct use of these inhalers is equally important. Children and their caregivers need to understand not just when to use the inhaler but also how to use it effectively to ensure the maximum benefit. This can prevent serious asthma exacerbations and improve overall control of the condition.

In contrast, while encouraging physical activity can be beneficial for asthma management, it should be approached cautiously, especially during periods of poor asthma control. Minimizing medication use is not advisable because controlling asthma often requires appropriate medication use to keep symptoms at bay. Checking for allergies is also relevant to asthma management but does not directly address the immediate need for relief during an asthma attack.