Asthma attacks are generally considered minor threats, if maintained properly, and are treated timeously and with the right medication or methods. However, there may come a point where, when stuck on a long bus journey, a passenger may suffer from an attack. This happens for a number of reasons, and at certain times, it cannot be helped. During a long bus journey, there are generally limited resources available to help the situation. This is why it is important to know how to treat it as effectively as possible (especially as a bus driver, who may be exposed to these situations at any time). The following are a few tips (adapted from the healthcare procedural manual for School bus drivers in Minnesota, USA:
• Remain calm and reassure the person
• Have them sit up and breathe evenly, breathing in through nose, and breathing out with pursed lips.
• If an asthma episode is suspected, give sips of room temperature water (if available).
• Elevate arms to shoulder level and provide support for the arms (back of seat).
• Notify the bus dispatcher.
• Give medication if ordered and available (most sufferers carry asthma inhalers with them).
Call emergency service personnel if:
▪ Lips are blue or nail beds are blue
▪ The person is having difficulty talking, walking or drinking
▪ “Quick relief” or “reliever” medication (inhaled reliever such
▪ as albuterol) is ineffective, unavailable, or used too recently to repeat.
▪ You see neck, throat, or chest retractions (Sucking in of the skin between
▪ There is nasal flaring when inhaling
Citiliner offers semi-luxury bus trips all over South Africa in stylish coaches, at some of the most affordable rates on the market. To find out more about how to book a trip, or for route and timetable information to any of Citiliner’s destinations, including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, East London, Maputo and many more, visit the website or contact the 24 hour customer care line on 083 915 9000.
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