Using the Open Airways curriculum to improve self-care for third grade children with asthma

A 12-week, pilot intervention study was conducted in five elementary schools with third grade children who have asthma to test instruments, feasibility of providing the Open Airways classes in less time, and to identify potential problems in study implementation. The sample consisted of 10 boys and five girls ranging in age from 8-9.5 years. Asthma management knowledge improved significantly (t = -2.30, p = .019). Findings supported the reliability and readability of the instruments and the feasibility of briefer class sessions. The Open Airways curriculum can be modified to facilitate delivery to school-based groups without interfering with academic time.