A 7-year-old with asthma reports a racing heart. What is the best immediate action?

In the scenario where a 7-year-old with asthma is experiencing a racing heart, the most appropriate immediate action is to assist in administering albuterol. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that helps relieve airway constriction, which can be particularly beneficial during an asthma exacerbation. When a child with asthma reports a racing heart, it may be a result of their respiratory distress, and administering albuterol can help improve their breathing and subsequently stabilize their heart rate.

While providing oxygen can be important if the child is hypoxic or in respiratory distress, the immediate need is to address the potential airway constriction that could be contributing to both the asthma attack and the racing heart. Therefore, assisting in administering albuterol directly addresses the underlying issue of asthma exacerbation. After administering albuterol, if the child continues to show signs of respiratory distress or remains hypoxic, oxygen can then be provided as a secondary measure.

Monitoring vital signs is also essential in a clinical setting, but in this acute scenario, immediate treatment for the asthmatic episode takes precedence. Aspirin is not an appropriate choice in this case, as it is used for cardiac-related issues and not for asthma attacks.