Which adjunct therapy might be considered for an acute asthma exacerbation?

Choosing helium-oxygen therapy as an adjunct therapy for an acute asthma exacerbation is correct because it can help improve gas exchange and reduce work of breathing. Helium-oxygen mixtures, often referred to as Heliox, are less dense than room air. This lower density allows for easier passage of gas through constricted airways, potentially improving airflow in patients experiencing severe bronchoconstriction during an asthma attack. The use of Heliox is particularly beneficial in cases where traditional bronchodilators might be less effective due to significant airway swelling.

In contrast, corticosteroids, while an important part of the management of asthma exacerbations, are typically not considered an immediate adjunct therapy for acute symptoms as they take time to exert their effects. Antibiotics would only be appropriate if there is a clear indication of a secondary bacterial infection rather than being a preventive measure in most asthma cases. Long-acting beta agonists are generally not used for immediate relief of acute symptoms since they are designed for maintenance therapy and not for quick rescue. Therefore, helium-oxygen therapy stands out as a useful adjunctive measure in acute episodes of asthma.