Are you prepared to handle an asthma emergency? Knowing what to do in these situations is crucial for the health and safety of yourself or others you come into contact with socially or at work. While these events can be stressful, with some basic information and training, you can provide immediate first aid to someone and potentially save a life. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of asthma first aid, equipping you with the tools necessary to handle these types of emergencies confidently.
Key Takeaways
Asthma attacks can become an emergency, needing first aid and urgent medical attention.
Call triple zero (000) in an asthma emergency and request an ambulance.
Know the four steps of asthma first aid: sit the person upright, give four separate puffs of blue/grey reliever puffer, wait 4 minutes, and if breathing does not return to normal, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.
Follow an asthma action plan (if one is available)
When asthma attack symptoms appear you will know the signs of mild to moderate, severe, and life-threatening asthma attacks.
Asthma affects around 2.7 million Australians every year. The disease can range from mild symptoms such as coughing and wheezing to severe symptoms such as tightness of the chest, restricted breathing, and, in very serious cases, unconsciousness. With so many people being affected, the chances are high that you know someone who suffers from asthma. Knowing how to deal with asthma emergencies is a essential. Being prepared and taking quick action is the key to helping those who suffer from asthma.
Recognising Common Triggers
As the saying goes, prevention is better than a cure! So identifying their common asthma triggers is the logical place to start helping. By identifying triggers, you may be able to reduce or eliminate exposure which is great start. Common asthma triggers include pollens, pet dander, windy condition, dust and cold, damp air. In some situations people may not be aware of their surroundings unwittingly putting themselves in harms way.
For example, you may visit a park that you know has a particular type of tree that triggers asthma symptoms in some people. In this situation you are in a position to advice people with asthma of the hazard. In doing so you may have prevented a potential asthma flare up.
Recognising triggers may also help you to intervene earlier and provide asthma first aid. By recognising asthma symptoms early, you can provide the correct treatment, reducing or completely stopping the asthma incident from escalating to something more serious. So be vigilant and on the look out for conditions and triggers.
Recognising Signs and Symptoms
If a persons asthma is triggered, then recognising the signs and symptoms of a flare-up or attack can help you ensure someone’s safety. As mentioned above, common symptoms include difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. If someone starts to display these symptoms, it’s important to act.
Start by asking questions that may help to determine the problem quickly. Questions like, Are you OK? Do you suffer from any respiratory problems? Would you like some help? Do you have any medication I can help you with? By asking questions, you start the conversation that may prevent someones asthma from getting worse. In some cases they may be experiencing a coughing fit. However it may also be more serious issue such as asthma flare up. At least by asking questions, you have initiated a conversation that may result in early intervention and a better outcome.
In some cases, people with asthma may have an asthma action plan. Asthma action plans are recommended in Australia for everyone that has asthma. Asthma Australia is the peak body in Australia that researches and promotes the highest medical standards for asthma research and care. Asthma Australia recommends those suffering from asthma should ask their doctor to write a formal asthma action plan. For an example of an asthma action plan please click here. If the person you are helping has an Asthma Action Plan, then you should follow the details.
In the absence of a formal asthma action plan it is recommended that you follow the generic asthma action plan as set out by Asthma Australia. That is also known as the 4 x 4 x 4 asthma action plan ( see video below). Follow these 4 steps to effectively manage an asthma attack. These steps are crucial for managing and responding to an asthma emergency.
First, sit the person upright and remain calm and reassuring. Please do not leave them alone.
Next, use a spacer device to give four separate puffs of the blue/grey reliever puffer.
Shake the puffer, put one puff into the spacer, and have the person take four breaths. Repeat until four puffs have been taken.
Then, wait for four minutes to see if there is any improvement. If not, give four more separate puffs of the reliever medication.
Finally, if breathing does not return to normal after this step or worsens further, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance immediately. In many Australia work places today it is a requirement that you undergo a formal first aid training course. The nationally recoginsed first aid training course code HLTAID011 include an entire section about asthma and the appropriate action plans in an emergency.
You can watch the video below from Asthma Australia for a better explanation.
One of the most commonly asked questions is, “Why do people use a spacer?“. The reason for using a spacer can be summed up on one word. That is effectiveness. A spacer helps to distribute the Ventolin (asthma relief medication) into the airways far more effectively.
An interesting fact is that statistically, when someone uses the puffer without a spacer approximation 10% of the Ventolin finds it way into the airways. So 90% of the Ventolin is wasted! On the other hand if they use a spacer as in the video above, approximately 60 to 80% of the Ventolin finds its way into their airways providing far more effective relief.
Therefore it is highly recommended that everyone living with asthma should use a spacer with their puffer for the effective asthma management. Remember that different reliever puffers are available, so consult your healthcare provider about which is best for you.
Severe Allergic Reactions and Asthma
In some extreme cases asthma symptoms can present themselves when someone has a sever allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis. This is a very serious situation that requires urgent medical attention. Call triple zero (000) immediately. It is vital to manage asthma during anaphylactic shock to prevent further complications.
The connection between allergies and asthma means that individuals with known allergies are more susceptible to developing asthma symptoms during an allergic reaction. In a situation were a person has an anaphylactic reaction and their asthma is triggered at the same time, treat the anaphylaxis first as it is life threatening and then treat the asthma second. It is also essential for individuals with asthma and allergies to carry an adrenaline injector at all times, as it is the first line of treatment during anaphylaxis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when faced with an asthma emergency, it is crucial to act quickly and confidently. Recognising the signs and symptoms of an asthma attack is vital to providing effective first aid. Following asthma first aid steps, including using a reliever puffer, can help alleviate the person’s breathing difficulties. Remember to stay calm and call emergency services if your condition does not improve. Just like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy waters, your knowledge and preparedness can be the beacon of hope that guides someone to safety during an asthma emergency.
Meet Nick, the heart and soul of First Aid HQ, where safety comes first. With a wealth of experience, Nick is the lead trainer who ensures that individuals are well-equipped to handle emergencies. Beyond the training room, Nick finds his joy in two things: cycling through scenic routes and cheering on his son at soccer matches. His dedication extends to the community as well, as he volunteers as a first aider for several soccer clubs in the northwestern suburbs of Melbourne. A true people person, Nick's genuine passion for helping others shines through in everything he does.
