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British Guideline on the MAnAGeMent of AsthMA
2.6.3 MONITORING CHILDREN IN PRIMARy CARE
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Asthma is best monitored in primary care by routine clinical review on at least an annual basis
(see section 8.1.2).
; The factors that should be monitored and recorded include:
symptom score, eg Children’s Asthma Control Test, Asthma Control Questionnaire
exacerbations, oral corticosteroid use and time off school/nursery due to asthma
since last assessment
inhaler technique (see section 5)
adherence (see section 9.2), which can be assessed by reviewing prescription refill
frequency
possession of and use of self management plan/personalised asthma action plan (see
section 9.1)
exposure to tobacco smoke
growth (height and weight centile).
2.6.4 MONITORING ADULTS IN PRIMARy CARE
Asthma is best monitored in primary care by routine clinical review on at least an annual basis
(see section 8.1.2).
; The factors that should be monitored and recorded include:
symptomatic asthma control: best assessed using directive questions such as the RCP
‘3 questions’, 109 or the Asthma Control Questionnaire or Asthma Control Test (see
Table 8), since broad non-specific questions may underestimate symptoms
lung function, assessed by spirometry or by PEF. Reduced lung function compared
to previously recorded values may indicate current bronchoconstriction or a long
term decline in lung function and should prompt detailed assessment. Patients with
irreversible airflow obstruction may have an increased risk of exacerbations.
exacerbations, oral corticosteroid use and time off work or school since last assessment
inhaler technique (see section 5)
adherence (see section 9.2), which can be assessed by reviewing prescription refill
frequency
bronchodilator reliance, which can be assessed by reviewing prescription refill
frequency
possession of and use of self management plan/personal action plan (see section
9.1).