[Evaluation of activities and effectiveness of an asthmatic child program developed in primary care]

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate activities and effectiveness of a programme of attention to asthmatic child, defined by a proper diagnostic process and therapeutic intervention, by the gain of educational goals and by reduction of number of asthma attacks.

Design: A before-after study

Setting: Primary care

Participants: The first 81 children attracted to the programme. Aged 5 to 13.

Intervention: Each child was periodically revised (mean time of monitoring 11 months and 24 days: interval 7-17 months).

Measurements and main results: Intervention obtained significative results (p < 0.0001) in: lung function study and allergens detection, use of inhalatory way and peak flow meter. Asthma attacks were reduced (p < 0.0001): before 216, mean 2.66, SD 1.85, range 0-8; and after 117, mean 1.44, SD 1.27, range 0-5.

Conclusions: 1. A systematic and organized intervention from Primary Care results effective to improve quality of life in asthmatic child (better diagnostic, more abilities, less asthma attacks). 2. It must be stated new strategies for reduction of smoking at home of these children.