[Adult asthma exacerbation: emergency room management]

Asthmatic exacerbations (AEs) are a frequent reason for emergency department visits. Management should be guided by the severity of the attack but should also focus on patient education and prevention of future exacerbations. This article summarizes current recommendations for the management of both simple and life-threatening AE. When the clinical evolution is favorable, and the patient no longer presents any criteria of severity or risk factors for decompensation, a return home can be considered, with appropriate treatment and the organization of outpatient follow-up. However, if the patient's prognosis is likely to be engaged, transfer to an intensive care unit should not be delayed, to ensure optimal care.