Implementation of Evidence Based Practice Change Using Computer Based Education To Improve Asthma Compliance in 7-12 Year Olds

Abstract

<p>Significant numbers of children in the u.S. are affected by asthma resulting in poor airway exchange, increased risk of respiratory infections, and equated with increased school absenteeism and emergency room (ER) visits. Effective asthma management requires prompt treatment regimen and timely recognition of triggers that exacerbate symptoms. Evidence from literature indicates that tailored, interactive computer based asthma education in the privacy of the home improves health outcomes, increases self-management skills, and decreases healthcare utilization. The burning question is: does a 6-month in-home, interactive computer asthma educational program increase self-regulatory actions, asthma-specific behaviors, and confidence in pediatric asthma management decisionmaking? Project planned, measurable objectives stated, and conceptual framework applied: The Practice Change includes a 6month in-home, interactive computer asthma education program offered in conjunction with a military treatment facility in the Midwest to encourage self-management of asthma in children 7-12 years. Purposive, convenience sampling of 30 children will be done by the nurse researcher during a routine clinic visit. Permission will be sought from parents/guardian to access their child's medical records and keep a diary recording school days missed. Bartholomew, et al.'s 23-item questionnaire measuring self-regulatory actions (taking medications), asthma-specific behaviors (environmental triggers monitoringL and confidence in asthma management decision making will be used at the intervention onset and again in 6 months. A nurse researcher will provide individual instructions on using the asthma education program. Pediatric clinic phone numbers will be provided for questions regarding the educational intervention. Social cognitive theory is appropriate for this intervention because it posits that learning is enhanced in a nonthreatening environment that provides interactive teaching/learning. Evaluation of project: EBP intervention success will be determined by pre-and-post-test evaluations measuring change in confidence in performing self-regulatory, asthma-specific behaviors and diary/medical records review for asthma-related school absences and ER visits.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 16, 2010</p>