Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CPEN Practice Questions and Study Guide

Administering bronchodilators and oxygen if hypoxic is essential in managing an acute asthma exacerbation in children. Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, work by relaxing the airway muscles, leading to bronchodilation, which is crucial for improving airflow during an asthma attack. Oxygen should be provided if the child is hypoxic to ensure adequate oxygenation, as airway constriction during an asthma episode can significantly impede air exchange.

In the context of other options, while they address certain concerns, they do not focus specifically on the immediate, critical interventions required to relieve acute asthma symptoms effectively. Administering oxygen and performing chest compressions are more related to respiratory or cardiac arrests rather than the primary management of an asthma exacerbation. Providing steroids and monitoring heart rate can be important later in the treatment plan but are not considered immediate priorities in the acute setting. Similarly, offering fluids and performing a thorough assessment, while part of overall care, do not directly address the urgent need to alleviate bronchospasm or hypoxia.