A recent Australian snapshot into asthma control has produced concerning figures in the amount of preventable deaths each year. St John Ambulance (Qld) wishes to remind all Queenslanders of the correct first aid treatment should you or someone nearby suffer from an asthma attack.
St John (Qld) first aid expert Darryl Clare said the figures were alarming.
“Asthma is a very common but serious condition which is simple to keep under control – hospitalisation and deaths are largely preventable if the correct first aid treatment is applied."
Darryl said management of asthma is fairly straightforward, especially if asthmatics ensure they always carry their medication with them.
“Asthma can be triggered from a variety of reasons including exercise, allergies, sudden changes in weather, anxiety, smoke or food additives or preservatives,” he said.
“If someone is suffering from an asthma attack, follow the DRSABCD action plan, assist the casualty in a comfortable, upright position and help with the administration of medication.
“St John (Qld) recommends the 4:4:4 approach – give four puffs of an inhaler (using a spacer is available), followed by four breaths after each puff, then wait four minutes. If symptoms have not improved, repeat and call triple zero (000) for an ambulance.”
St John recommends the use of spacers to ensure even distribution of asthma medication. A good quality first aid kit will stock a disposable spacer.
The 2-day St John Provide First Aid PLUS+ course includes extensive training and formal accreditation in emergency management about asthma.
For more information or to book into a first aid course contact St John (Qld) on 1300 ST JOHN (78 5646) or visit www.stjohnqld.com.au.
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Media contact: Angela Madden on (07) 3253 0579.