A parent brings their child, who has a history of asthma, to the emergency department (ED). The child is wheezing and speaking one word between each breath. The child is anxious, tachycardic, and has labored respirations. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to obtain?

A. Last dose and type of rescue inhaler used by the child: Knowing the timing and type of rescue medication is critical in an acute asthma exacerbation to determine if additional doses or alternative therapies are needed immediately. B. Frequency that the child uses a rescue inhaler during the week: While important for long-term asthma management, it is less critical during an acute, life-threatening episode where immediate intervention is required. C. Type of allergen exposure or trigger for the current episode: Identifying triggers can help prevent future episodes but does not influence immediate treatment for the child’s current severe respiratory distress. D. Type of inhaler the child typically uses on a regular basis: Knowing routine inhalers is relevant for chronic management but does not provide immediate guidance for emergency treatment of acute airway compromise.