Asthma management, Part II: Pharmacologic management

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nursing
• Respiratory Medicine
• School Health

Background:

• Part I discussed asthma pathophysiology, types, risk factors, and the school nurse's role in management plans and trigger control.
• Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition in school-aged children, requiring comprehensive management strategies within the educational setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review school nursing responsibilities in managing childhood asthma, specifically focusing on pharmacologic therapy.
• To cover nutritional supplements, complementary and alternative treatments, medication access, team involvement, and health education for pediatric asthma patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current pharmacologic therapies for pediatric asthma.
• Discussion of non-pharmacologic interventions, including nutrition and complementary/alternative medicine.
• Analysis of logistical and educational aspects of asthma care in schools.

Main Results:

• School nurses play a critical role in administering and monitoring pharmacologic asthma treatments.
• Nutritional supplements and alternative therapies are increasingly utilized, requiring informed nursing guidance.
• Effective asthma management necessitates collaboration among the school team, students, and families, alongside accessible medication.

Conclusions:

• School nurses are integral to optimizing asthma pharmacotherapy and managing associated treatments in pediatric patients.
• Comprehensive asthma care in schools requires addressing medication access, interdisciplinary collaboration, and robust health education programs.
• Empowering students and families through education is key to successful asthma self-management in the school environment.