Efficacy of an individualized written home‐management plan in the control of moderate persistent asthma: A randomized, controlled trial

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The management of childhood asthma necessitates a comprehensive approach including pharmacological treatment as well as education about self-evaluation and home management of the condition. AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of adding an individualized written home-management plan in the control of moderate persistent asthma. METHODS: Children with moderate persistent asthma were randomized to receive either an individualized written home-management plan or no plan, in addition to standard asthma therapy including education. They were followed up with serial measurement of outcome variables. RESULTS: Children receiving an individualized written home-management plan had fewer acute asthma events, fewer lost school days, lower symptom score and less nocturnal awakening than those who did not receive a written plan. CONCLUSION: The addition of a written individualized home-management plan improves overall control in children with moderate persistent asthma.