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School practices in supporting children with asthma in Malta
Maria Caruana1, Lorna M Bonnici West2, Maria Cordina1
1Medicines Use Research Group, Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta.
Maltese primary school teachers have low asthma knowledge and self-efficacy, with most lacking training. Targeted asthma education and support interventions are crucial for children with asthma in schools.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Respiratory Health
- Educational Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Asthma is prevalent in children, requiring effective school management.
- Malta has a high asthma prevalence and limited school nursing resources.
- Teacher preparedness is vital for managing childhood asthma in educational settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess teachers' knowledge, attitudes, practices, and beliefs regarding childhood asthma medication management.
- To understand the current state of asthma care in Maltese primary schools.
- To identify needs for teacher training and school-based asthma support.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional electronic survey was distributed to state primary school teachers in Malta.
- The survey covered beliefs about medicines, asthma knowledge, attitudes, self-efficacy, and practices.
- Data were collected from 167 teachers across 26 schools.
Main Results:
- A majority of teachers (56%) lacked awareness of children's asthma conditions.
- Only 20% of teachers had received asthma support training.
- Teachers demonstrated low asthma knowledge (mean 5.5/14) and poor self-efficacy (6% confident in managing exacerbations independently).
Conclusions:
- Teachers expressed a strong desire for asthma education.
- Interventions including teacher training, action plans, and improved communication are necessary.
- Enhanced support systems are needed to create a safe school environment for children with asthma.
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