Acute severe asthma management (adult UK pathway)
A source-linked educational visual of adult acute severe asthma assessment, oxygen, bronchodilator treatment and escalation using UK asthma guidance.
Important safety note
This visual algorithm is an educational representation of published UK clinical guidance and is not a substitute for clinical judgement, local protocols, senior/specialist advice, or the original guideline. Verify current guidance before clinical use.
Scope and source
- Scope
- Adults with acute asthma exacerbation in UK emergency and acute-care services.
- Jurisdiction
- UK
- Primary guidance
- BTS/SIGN British guideline on the management of asthma
- Guidance last updated
- 2019-07-31
- Clinical reference reviewed
- 2026-09-08
- Review due
- 2027-03-08
Interactive clinical algorithm
This source-backed visual algorithm is available in the interactive page experience. Open the original guidance and the node notes before clinical use.
How to read this visual
- Read across the columns for the phases of the pathway; the swimlanes are who acts — Emergency team, Measurement and monitoring, Senior and critical care.
- Bold marks the dose, threshold or time limit that decides the next step; the rest of a label is context.
- Use the severity decision before selecting the escalation pathway.
- Open notes for oxygen targets, magnesium and ICU referral context.
Clinical notes
- Use current local adult asthma and non-invasive/invasive ventilation guidance.
- Treat anaphylaxis, pneumothorax, infection and other alternative diagnoses when indicated.
Sources
- NHS Scotland adult acute asthma pathway (NHS Scotland; 2019-07-31)
Open an editable reference copy
Create a personal educational copy. Verify the original guidance before clinical use.