According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an asthma action plan is a written plan usually developed with a health care provider to identify current status of the condition and assist in control of asthma symptoms. Common elements of the plan include daily treatment regimen, how best to control the condition and how to manage if the condition gets worse. The plan provides instructions and guidance and may be divided into three zones: green, yellow and red. The green zone usually means the asthma is controlled; the yellow zone is when asthma is getting worse; and the red zone characterizes criteria that indicates that it is a medical emergency.
Medication Management
Current medications used and frequency should be listed on the plan for children. Long-term daily medications such as inhaled corticosteroids and quick relief medications should be listed. Additional instructions such as administration methods should be provided to assist in use of the medications.
Asthma Control
Control of asthma is important in reducing potential attacks and the reduction of symptoms. An asthma control test can help identify how bad asthma symptoms may have been over the last 4 weeks. Control is determined by a series of questions for both the child and the parent. The test also monitors the number of times rescue medications such as albuterol are used, which is a sign of uncontrolled asthma.
Treatment for Asthma Attacks
According to the Mayo Clinic, an asthma attack usually starts with warning signs such as coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath. Understanding these early signs is an excellent method to reduce the possibility of a full-blown attack. The asthma action plan instructions will provide helpful tips to control these symptoms.
Peak Flow Readings
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, a peak flow meter is a small device that helps to measure a child's ability to effectively breathe air out of the lung or peak expiratory flow rate. The meter helps to identify the severity of asthma, how effective the treatment methods are during an attack and identify if the condition is getting worse. A low peak expiratory flow reading indicates a need to modify medication regimens. A history of readings should be tracked on the asthma control plan to assist in understanding when the condition may be worse.
Triggers
Asthma triggers can affect children in different ways. Common triggers can include, allergens, dust mites, indoor mold, pollen and outdoor mold or irritants such as smoking. Keeping a record of what triggers have an effect on a child is helpful in the management of asthma symptoms. Identified triggers should be recorded on the asthma action plan to identify items that may make the condition worse and to help identify strategies to reduce exposure.
Plan Development
An asthma action plan should be developed with a health provider to assist in the management and control of asthma. Older children are encouraged to play an active role in the development of the plan. Although asthma cannot be completely cured, a detailed plan can provide instructions to assist in the overall management of the chronic condition at home and away.
