Asthma Risk Profiles of Children Participating in an Asthma Education and Management Program

Abstract

BackgroundFocused risk assessment is essential in the effective management of asthma.PurposeThis study identified and examined correlations among areas of pediatric asthma risk and determined associations between these risks and demographic characteristics.MethodsThis exploratory study identified risk factors that affect asthma management among pediatric asthmatics using the Child Asthma Risk Assessment Tool. Results were analyzed using descriptive frequencies and tests of correlation and association.ResultsRisk assessments were completed for 155 children. The most prominent areas of risk were responsibility in medication administration (46%), caregiver well-being (35%), child well-being (33%), and medication adherence (28%). Correlations and associations were found among areas of risk and demographic characteristics.DiscussionAs a result of the assessment, participants were able to receive tailored asthma education sessions to address asthma risks and promote effective asthma self-management.Translation to Health Education PracticeConducting standardized asthma risk assessment offers health educators and healthcare providers valuable information to understand the relationships between various areas of risk and tailor asthma education and management activities in efforts to eliminate those risks and improve asthma health outcomes.