Prerequisites
Participants must already be certified in First Aid and/or CPR, or be enrolled in an equivalent Red Cross course.
American Red Cross Skill Boost
Asthma Inhaler
Training
This American Red Cross Skill Boost helps trained responders recognize an asthma attack and assist with or administer quick-relief medication using an inhaler with a spacer.
Skill Boost
Instructor-Led
Inhaler + Optional Nebulizer
Quick Course Facts
Important details before taking this Red Cross Skill Boost.
Course Length
Lesson length is approximately 45 minutes, or up to 60 minutes when optional nebulizer content is included.
Certification
Participants who successfully complete the course receive an American Red Cross certificate valid for 2 years.
Devices Covered
Core training includes inhaler use with a spacer, with optional training in quick-relief medication administration by nebulizer.
How This Skill Boost Is Built
Designed around recognizing asthma attacks quickly and helping a person receive the right quick-relief care.
Core Topic
Recognizing an Asthma Attack
Students learn what an asthma attack is, what triggers may cause it, and how to recognize common signs and symptoms quickly.
- Recognize wheezing, coughing, and gasping
- Understand common triggers and flare-ups
- Know when to call 9-1-1 for added help
Core Skill
Inhaler with Spacer
Students practice administering quick-relief medication using an inhaler with a spacer, including setup, breathing steps, and timing.
- Verify the medication and prepare the inhaler
- Attach the spacer correctly
- Administer the dose and note the time
Optional Skill
Nebulizer Administration
When included, students also practice administering quick-relief medication using a nebulizer device.
- Assemble the nebulizer equipment
- Administer medication safely
- Monitor the person during treatment
Upcoming Asthma Inhaler Training Classes
Register for an upcoming American Red Cross asthma medication course.
Course Schedule
No upcoming classes are posted yet.
Check back soon or contact us about private training.
Course Details
What This Course Covers
This American Red Cross Skill Boost was developed to address the need for training and certification in the use of an inhaler with a spacer and includes optional training in the use of a nebulizer.
Main Focus
Recognizing asthma attacks and helping administer quick-relief medication
Core Skill
Administering quick-relief medication using an inhaler with a spacer
Optional Topic
Administering quick-relief medication using a nebulizer
Certification
2-year American Red Cross certificate upon successful completion
Why It Matters
Built for Respiratory Emergencies Where Quick Action Helps
Asthma attacks can escalate quickly and make breathing difficult. This course helps trained responders recognize symptoms, support the person, call for help, and assist with quick-relief medication until advanced care arrives.
Best For
Schools, childcare, camps, athletic staff, workplaces, churches, and organizations with asthma risk
Emergency Steps
Reinforces CHECK—CALL—CARE and position of comfort during an asthma attack
Important Note
Always follow state law, local protocol, facility policy, the person’s asthma action plan, and manufacturer instructions
What You’ll Learn
Major topics covered in American Red Cross Asthma and Quick-Relief Medication Administration training.
Recognizing an Asthma Attack
- Describe what asthma is and what an asthma attack can look like
- Recognize wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and breathing difficulty
- Identify common asthma triggers
- Understand when to seek emergency help
Quick-Relief Medication Basics
- Understand the role of quick-relief medication in asthma care
- Know the difference between long-term control and quick-relief medicine
- Understand when helping or administering medication may be appropriate
- Follow the person’s asthma action plan when available
Inhaler with Spacer Skill
- Verify the medication by checking the label
- Shake the inhaler and attach the spacer
- Guide proper breathing technique
- Note the time and any change in condition
Optional Nebulizer Skill
- Assemble the nebulizer and medicine cup
- Attach the tubing, mouthpiece, or mask correctly
- Administer medication safely through misting treatment
- Monitor the person and note the time of administration
Common Questions
Quick answers for students and organizations considering American Red Cross asthma medication training.
Is this a stand-alone course?
No. This is a Red Cross Skill Boost designed to build on First Aid,
CPR, or equivalent prerequisite training.
Do I need certification before taking this course?
Yes. Participants must already be certified in First Aid and/or CPR,
or be enrolled in an equivalent Red Cross course.
Does this include nebulizer training?
Inhaler with spacer training is the required core skill. Nebulizer
training may also be included as optional content.
How long is certification valid?
Successful participants receive a Red Cross certificate valid for 2 years.