Help the child into an upright, comfortable position. The child may be panicking or distressed, which will only increase the severity of their symptoms. You will need to reassure them and help them to calm down. Don’t leave them alone.

If the person is having trouble staying awake or loses consciousness, call Triple Zero (000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan.

If they have an inhaler, help them take four (4) puffs from the device then monitor their symptoms for improvement for a further four (4) minutes. If the person is still unable to breathe normally, give them four (4) more puffs from the inhaler in the same way.

If their condition worsens, call Triple Zero (000). Keep giving four (4) puffs every four (4) minutes until medical aid arrives.

If the child does not have an inhaler, call Triple Zero (000). You might need to administer CPR or use a defibrillator.