What action should you take for someone having an asthma attack?

The appropriate action for someone experiencing an asthma attack is to help them use their inhaler and encourage slow, deep breaths. During an asthma attack, the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it difficult for the person to breathe. The inhaler typically contains medication that helps to open up the airways, allowing for easier airflow.

Encouraging the person to take slow, deep breaths helps to calm their breathing and reduce anxiety, which can further exacerbate the situation. It's important to provide reassurance and support during an asthma attack, as panic can lead to rapid, shallow breathing that may worsen the attack.

Other options such as encouraging the individual to run could increase their respiratory distress, depending on the severity of the attack. Offering water may lead to choking or does not address the immediate respiratory issue. Keeping them lying flat could restrict breathing and is not advisable during an asthmatic episode; a more upright position is generally preferred for better airflow.