A randomized trial to improve self-management practices of adults with asthma

Arch Intern Med. 1990 Aug;150(8):1664-8.

Abstract

The prevalence and impact of adult asthma are substantial, and poor self-management practices, especially failures to adhere to treatment regimens, appear to be a significant problem. Desirable characteristics of an intervention program to improve self-management were identified through needs assessment and review of existing patient education resources. A comprehensive program was developed that integrated a workbook with one-to-one counseling and adherence-enhancing strategies. A longitudinal 1-year study compared patients receiving this self-management program with "usual care" patients receiving standard asthma pamphlets. Patients were randomly assigned to conditions. Baseline score and asthma severity were statistically controlled. Self-management patients had substantially better adherence than usual care patients, as well as improved functional status, at follow-up. Hospital and emergency department visits decreased in both groups but did not differ between groups.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Asthma / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Compliance*
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Self Care / methods*