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Inhaler therapy. What it means for children with asthma
Karen Parsons1, Graham Worrall, John Knight
1School of Nursing, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's. karenp@mun.ca
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|October 1, 2004
Summary
Children with asthma find inhaler therapy both helpful and burdensome. While recognizing the necessity of inhaled medications for quality of life, many struggle with adherence due to inconvenience and side effects.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Asthma Management
- Patient Adherence
Background:
- Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition in children.
- Inhaler therapy is a cornerstone of asthma management in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore children's perceptions of inhaler therapy.
- To identify challenges and concerns associated with inhaler use in pediatric asthma patients.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research design utilizing in-depth interviews.
- Study conducted in a rural community-based family practice in Newfoundland.
- Seventeen children (aged 5-16) with mild/moderate asthma using inhaled steroids or bronchodilators participated.
Main Results:
- Positive themes included ease of use and necessity for quality of life.
- Negative themes encompassed forgetting, inconvenience, perceived ineffectiveness, and side effects.
- Children often preferred an 'as-needed' approach over regular use.
Conclusions:
- Inhaler therapy holds dual significance for children, balancing perceived importance with practical difficulties.
- Despite understanding the value of regular medication, adherence remains a challenge.
- Pediatric patients often exhibit poor compliance with prescribed inhaler regimens.