A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a child who is experiencing an acute asthma attack. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer first?

Rationale: A. Fluticasone is an inhaled corticosteroid used for long-term asthma control, not for acute attacks. B. Albuterol is a short-acting beta₂-adrenergic agonist (SABA) that provides rapid bronchodilation, making it the first-line treatment during an acute asthma attack. C. Budesonide is also an inhaled corticosteroid for long-term control, not immediate relief. D. Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for maintenance therapy, not for acute symptom relief.