What is an appropriate intervention for a child experiencing an asthma attack?

Administering a bronchodilator is the most appropriate intervention for a child experiencing an asthma attack because it directly addresses the acute bronchospasm associated with asthma. Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, which helps to open up the air passages and improve airflow to the lungs. This rapid action can significantly relieve wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath during an asthma attack.

Fluid hydration, while important for overall health and can be beneficial in certain contexts, does not treat the immediate symptoms of an asthma attack. Similarly, corticosteroids are useful in managing long-term inflammation in asthma but their effects are not immediate, making them less suitable for acute relief during an attack. Encouraging deep breathing exercises may help with calming and can be supportive in asthma management, but it does not provide the immediate relief needed during an acute episode. Thus, the administration of a bronchodilator is the most effective and appropriate response to relieve symptoms during an asthma attack.