What is the most appropriate action for a patient exhibiting severe stridor?

In the case of a patient exhibiting severe stridor, the most appropriate action is to provide supplemental oxygen and prepare for potential intubation. Stridor is a high-pitched, wheezing sound resulting from turbulent airflow in the upper airway, often indicating a significant obstruction or narrowing. This may be due to conditions such as anaphylaxis, infection, foreign body obstruction, or other causes that compromise the airway.

Administering supplemental oxygen is critical to ensure that the patient maintains adequate oxygenation, as they may be struggling to breathe effectively due to their airway compromise. Simultaneously, preparing for potential intubation is crucial because stridor signifies a high risk of respiratory failure. If the airway continues to obstruct, intubation may become necessary to secure the airway and ensure that the patient can breathe properly.

The other options do not adequately address the immediate airway concerns presented by severe stridor. Antihistamines may not be effective in a severe airway compromise scenario and could delay critical interventions. A wait-and-see approach is inappropriate due to the potential for rapid deterioration in a patient with severe stridor. Delivering antibiotics may be relevant for infections causing stridor but does not address the immediate need to secure the airway and manage the patient’s