First Aid Guides
Asthma attack
What to do during an asthma attack
An asthma attack is a sudden worsening of asthma symptoms that can cause difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, tightening of the airways or wheezing.
Read more about triggers, signs and symptoms.
Start with DRSABCD
D - Danger
Assess the area to ensure its safe for yourself, others and the patient. Only proceed to help them if its safe.
R - Response
Check for a response. You can do this by asking their name and squeezing their shoulders.
- If they do respond: Make them comfortable and continue to follow the steps in this guide
- If they don't respond: Send for help immediately (call Triple Zero 000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
First aid for asthma
If they're having trouble staying awake or losing consciousness at any time, call Triple Zero (000) and complete the DRSABCD Action Plan.
Step 1: Sit the person upright
- Make them comfortable
- Remain calm and reassure them
- Don't leave them alone
Step 2: If they have an inhaler, help them take 4 puffs or breaths
- Remove the inhaler cap and shake the inhaler well
- Assemble the spacer if they have one
- Help them take 4 puffs from the inhaler. If using a spacer, fire 1 puff into the spacer and get them to take 4 breaths
- Remember to shake the inhaler before each puff or 4 breaths
Step 3: Wait 4 minutes
- If there is no improvement, repeat Step 2 by giving 4 more puffs or breaths in the same way
- Remember to shake the inhaler before each puff or 4 breaths
Step 4: Send for help if breathing does not return to normal
- If they're not improving or getting worse call Triple Zero (000)
- Keep giving 4 puffs or breaths every 4 minutes until medical aid arrives
- Remember to shake the inhaler before each puff or 4 breaths
