A newly admitted patient presents with dyspnea, wheezing and tripod positioning. What should the nurse recognize as the priority intervention?

Acute respiratory distress with dyspnea, wheezing, and tripod positioning indicates severe airway obstruction and increased work of breathing. Tripod posture reflects accessory muscle use to maximize thoracic expansion and improve ventilation efficiency, commonly seen in asthma exacerbation or COPD flare. Rationale: A. Conducting a full physical assessment delays urgent treatment in a patient with compromised breathing. While assessment is important, immediate intervention is required to relieve airway obstruction. This does not address acute bronchospasm or hypoxia. B. Administering prescribed bronchodilators is the priority because they rapidly relax bronchial smooth muscles, reduce airway resistance, and improve airflow. Monitoring respiratory status ensures response evaluation. This directly treats acute bronchoconstriction and restores ventilation. C. Encouraging fluid intake does not improve airway patency or relieve respiratory distress. Oral fluids have no immediate effect on bronchospasm or oxygenation. This does not address the critical issue of impaired gas exchange. D. Pursed-lip breathing may help in chronic respiratory conditions but is insufficient in acute severe distress. It is supportive rather than definitive treatment. This does not rapidly reverse airway obstruction in an emergency situation.