GuardAssist
GuardAssist
UK Operational Guidance
999
Emergency First Aid
All emergency guides
Emergency

Asthma Attack

high

Sit up, use blue reliever inhaler, call 999 if not improving.

Call 999 where appropriate

Symptoms

  • Wheezing
  • Difficulty speaking full sentences
  • Tight chest
  • Blue lips (severe)

Actions

  • Sit casualty up — don't lie down.
  • Help use blue reliever inhaler: 1 puff every 30–60 seconds, up to 10 puffs.
  • Call 999 if no improvement after 10 puffs, symptoms worsen, or attack is severe.
  • Repeat inhaler while waiting.

GuardAssist provides operational decision support. It does not replace formal training, employer procedures, assignment instructions or professional judgement. In a life-threatening emergency, dial 999.