Problem: Asthma self-management techniques are an important preventive measure to help reduce the rising number of asthma hospitalizations and mortality among children ages 5-14 years. Methods: We assessed 110 children with asthma to examine whether an education program taught in 3 Midwest elementary schools improved knowledge and skill using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and Peak Expiratory Flow Meter (PEFM). Subjects were randomly assigned to an intervention group who received four 30-minute education sessions, or a control group who received no information on asthma management. Demographic information and asthma history were obtained from a parental questionnaire. Standardized pre-and post-measures of subject's asthma knowledge, PEFM and MDI technique were completed by respiratory therapists. Results: Mean age of students was 8.7 years (range 6-12), 53% were male, and 84% Caucasion. Baseline assessments demonstrated low scores on asthma knowledge (mean score=5.5, on a 10-point scale), PEFM technique (mean score=49.3, on a 100 point scale), and MDI technique (score=39.4, on a 100-point scale). Even among students currently on a daily inhaled steroid therapy, scores were similarly low, 6.5, 68.3, and 60.5 respectively. Post scores improved significantly: 2.1 points on the asthma knowledge scale (p<0.001), 30.7 on PEFM technique assessment (p<0.001) and 38.1 on the MDI technique assessment (p<0.001). Improvement in outcome scores was consistent regardless of subject's age, school, and current use of inhlaled steroids. Conclusion: At baseline, most children demonstrated low levels of asthma knowledge, PEFM and MDI technique; a brief educational intervention resulted in substantial improvement even among children currently practicing asthma self-management.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of reviewing the poster, the participant will be able to: 1. Identify necessary skills that asthmatic children need for proper inhaler technique, 2. Describe the technique of inhaler use by children, 3. Prioritize specific educational interventions for children with asthma.
Keywords: Asthma, School-Based Programs
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.