What is the first line of treatment for a patient with an asthma exacerbation?

The first line of treatment for a patient experiencing an asthma exacerbation is bronchodilators, particularly short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol. These medications work quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, allowing for improved airflow and relief from symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Administering a bronchodilator provides prompt relief during an acute exacerbation, addressing the immediate need for bronchodilation.

The other options, while important in the broader context of asthma management, do not serve as the initial response to an acute exacerbation. Corticosteroids are essential for lowering inflammation and improving long-term control of asthma but take longer to exert their effects. Oxygen therapy may be necessary in cases of severe hypoxia but is not the primary treatment for the exacerbation itself. Allergy testing is important for identifying triggers and managing asthma long-term but is not relevant in the acute setting. The immediate goal in an asthma exacerbation is to alleviate symptoms through bronchodilation, making this the correct choice.