Asthma

Dayton Children’s has developed the Asthma Care Program. This unique program allows children to be treated in the best location possible based on the degree of illness they are experiencing. This could be observation, inpatient or critical care when needed.

We strive to assure we provide a comprehensive treatment program, which includes appropriate medications, breathing treatments and patient/family education. A standardized protocol has been developed to ensure care is consistent from one patient to another. It is based on national guidelines and research findings.

When children come to the hospital for the treatment of asthma, there are several goals. Three of these are:

• Use of transition orders. If a child with asthma needs to be admitted to the hospital, sooner is better. This ensures all breathing treatments and medications are being given in a timely way. Our goal: Less than 60 minutes
• Asthma patient-driven protocol is used proficiently
• Children are stabilized and discharged on oral steroids.

Category	2004-2005	2005-2006
Use of transition orders (Goal: <60 minutes)	52 minutes with transition orders	56 minutes with transition orders
Proficient use of asthma patient-driven protocol	97% had aerosol frequency changes that follow protocol	96% had aerosol frequency changes that follow protocol
Stabilized and discharged on oral steroids	67%	100%