Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is the first step in the management of asthma according to the treatment steps?

1. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS)

2. Long-acting beta agonist (LABA)

3. Short-acting beta agonist (SABA)

4. Leukotriene receptor antagonist (LTRA)

The correct answer is: Short-acting beta agonist (SABA)

The first step in the management of asthma typically involves the use of short-acting beta agonists (SABA). These medications are primarily utilized for their rapid relief of acute bronchospasm and are effective in providing immediate symptom relief. They work by acting on the beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscle of the airways, leading to bronchodilation. In the context of asthma management, SABAs are essential for treating asthma attacks or exacerbations and are often used as needed for quick relief. This makes them a foundational part of asthma management, especially for individuals with occasional mild symptoms. Following the initial use of SABAs, the management can progress to include other medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) for long-term control, but the immediate step for relief during an asthma episode is always to administer a SABA.