Kathleen C Ellis1. 1. Department of Nursing, University of Tampa, Tampa, Florida 33606, USA. kellis@ut.edu
Abstract
PURPOSE: To discuss the diagnosis and management of asthma in preschool-aged children by nurse practitioners in primary care. DATA SOURCES: Selected research and clinical articles; 2007 National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma. CONCLUSIONS: Proper diagnosis leads to appropriate treatment of asthma in preschool-aged children, which facilitates asthma control. Well-controlled asthma results in fewer asthma exacerbations, fewer nighttime awakenings, and an increased ability to engage in normal childhood activities. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Advanced practice nurses are in the position to aid in the initial diagnosis of asthma in preschool-aged children through taking detailed medical histories, providing thorough physical examinations, and, if needed, initiating a therapeutic trial with an inhaled corticosteroid. Proper diagnosis and management of asthma is essential to reduce asthma complications, such as exacerbations leading to emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
PURPOSE: To discuss the diagnosis and management of asthma in preschool-aged children by nurse practitioners in primary care. DATA SOURCES: Selected research and clinical articles; 2007 National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma. CONCLUSIONS: Proper diagnosis leads to appropriate treatment of asthma in preschool-aged children, which facilitates asthma control. Well-controlled asthma results in fewer asthma exacerbations, fewer nighttime awakenings, and an increased ability to engage in normal childhood activities. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Advanced practice nurses are in the position to aid in the initial diagnosis of asthma in preschool-aged children through taking detailed medical histories, providing thorough physical examinations, and, if needed, initiating a therapeutic trial with an inhaled corticosteroid. Proper diagnosis and management of asthma is essential to reduce asthma complications, such as exacerbations leading to emergency department visits and hospitalizations.