Asthma Self-Management Action Plan

Check peak flow meter

Make sure the mouthpiece is clean and the meter is reset to zero.

Measure peak flow

Take three blows and record the highest value.

Record peak flow reading

Log the time and top reading in a diary or app.

Compare reading to your green/amber/red zones

Use the zone numbers you agreed with your clinician.

Check symptoms and match your zone

Note wheeze, cough, breathlessness, and night symptoms.

Review written asthma action plan

Confirm steps for each zone, medicines, and emergency contacts.

Carry reliever inhaler at all times

Keep it with you, check the expiry, and use a case if needed.

Check reliever inhaler technique

Shake, exhale, place mouth, actuate and inhale slowly

Do this for each puff; use a spacer if recommended.

Hold breath 10 seconds and wait 1 minute between puffs

This helps the medicine reach your lungs effectively.

Check preventer inhaler technique

Use spacer if prescribed and inhale slowly

A spacer can improve medicine delivery for many people.

Rinse mouth after using steroid inhaler

Spit and rinse to reduce risk of oral thrush.

Avoid common triggers and reduce exposure at home

Identify pets, dust, mould, smoke and limit contact where possible.

Practice red-zone emergency steps and update contacts

Run through your plan and keep emergency numbers and meds list current.

Teach household members how to help during an attack

Show how to give inhalers and when to call for help.

Schedule GP or asthma review appointment

Book a review yearly or after any recent flare-up.