Mild Persistent Asthma: What Is Best Practice Regarding Inhaled Corticosteroids?

Thesis (M.Nurs.), College of Nursing, Washington State UniversityPurpose: To provide an overview of asthma, discuss patient and provider perception of disease severity research, and address the controversial use of intermittent inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy in mild persistent asthma. Data Sources: Selected clinical articles and government guidelines. Conclusions: Evidence-based research supports the daily use of inhaled corticosteroids in mild persistent asthma, as recommended by national and international guidelines. As compared to placebo or intermittent ICS use, greater control is achieved with daily ICS use as evidenced by an increase in forced expiratory volume in one second, peak expiratory flow, symptom-free days, and time to first severe asthma attack. Implications for Practice: By incorporating the Health Belief Model, provider and patient ICS compliance can be achieved. By following established guidelines, patient outcomes can be improved and national health goals can be attained