Which is not a requirement for effective perfusion?

A. Increased total body water due to an increase in muscle mass is incorrect because muscle tissue holds more water than fat tissue, but as people age, they typically lose muscle mass, not gain it.

B. Decreased total body water due to a decrease in muscle mass is correct. As people age, muscle mass generally decreases, and since muscle tissue contains more water than fat tissue, the total body water decreases with aging.

C. Increased total body water caused by increased fat mass is incorrect because fat tissue actually holds less water than muscle tissue. As fat mass increases, total body water typically decreases.

D. Decreased total body water caused by decreased fat mass is incorrect because fat tissue does not significantly contribute to total body water, and the loss of fat does not have a significant impact on water content in the body.

A. While status asthmaticus is a severe, life-threatening asthma exacerbation, the first step is to stabilize the patient by improving oxygenation and relieving airway obstruction, not immediately calling 911 unless the situation worsens.

B. Intubation is not the first step unless the patient's respiratory status continues to deteriorate despite initial interventions. The focus should be on improving oxygenation and managing the airway.

C. Establishing IV access and administering emergency medications, such as corticosteroids or bronchodilators, may be necessary, but the first priority is to improve the patient's breathing and oxygenation.

D. Placing the patient in a high Fowler's position helps to open the airways and facilitate breathing. Starting oxygen therapy is essential to support oxygenation in a patient with labored breathing. This should be the first intervention.