Effect of a structured asthma education program on hospitalized asthmatic children: A randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of an intensive asthma education program (group B) with that of a standard asthma education program (group A). METHODS: A prospective randomized single blinded study was conducted in the pediatric department of a public hospital in Hong Kong. Children aged 2-15 years admitted to the pediatric department with an acute attack of asthma were recruited. A standard asthma education program (group A) or an intensive asthma education program (group B) for children were offered. The main outcome measures include the number of visits to the emergency department and the number of hospitalization for asthma during the 3 month follow-up period. RESULTS: A total of 45 children were in group A and 55 in group B. Group B had statistically significant reductions in the number of visits to the emergency department and the number of hospitalizations. Drug compliance was also significantly improved in group B. Parents' satisfaction rate was also higher in group B. CONCLUSION: The intensive asthma education program might be more cost effective than the standard asthma education program in the management of asthmatic children admitted to hospital in Hong Kong.