Asthma Care in the Community

Written by nurses for nurses, Asthma Care in the Community emphasizes the "back to basics" approach, which is often forgotten in a high technology healthcare system. The book covers epidemiology, including prevalence, morbidity, and mortality; the economic and social burden of asthma; the pathology and pathophysiology of asthma; managing patients with asthma, both pharmacologically and non-pharmacologically; managing uncomplicated asthma, right through to the more complex issues surrounding acute episodes and "difficult to manage" situations. Preface.

Acknowledgements.

Introduction.

1: The Epidemiology of Asthma.

2: The Respiratory System.

3: Asthma The Disease.

4: The Presentation and Diagnosis of Asthma.

5: Drug Therapy in Asthma.

6: Inhaler Devices and Nebulisers.

7: The Management of Asthma.

8: Special Situations.

9: Deteriorating Asthma.

10: Other Therapies.

11: Structure of Care.

12: The Future.

13: The Role of Nurses in the Management of Asthma.

Glossary.

Useful Addresses.

Index.

"I particularly enjoyed reading the book because it was divided up so well." (Pediatric Nursing, September 2008)

"This book comes highly recommended … The book is clearly written, well laid out providing illustrations and examples of case studies." (Journal of Community Nursing, Aug/Sep 2008)

"Written by a nurse for nurses…As a result, nurses in the community should find this book useful in developing their expertise." (Primary Nursing Care, Feb 2008)

Jill Waldron: West of Cornwall PCT, UK. Asthma is a common, chronic condition affecting all age groups. While the majority of asthma patients are managed in primary care, the small proportion of patients referred to secondary care have complex needs that tend to be difficult to manage. This book examines the evidence-based management of this diverse patient group from a community perspective.

Asthma Care in the Community guides the practitioner through the patient’s journey in a logical approach, from managing uncomplicated asthma, through to acute episodes and ‘difficult to manage’ situations. While addressing the more intricate issues, it also emphasises the ‘back to basics’ approach. Written by nurses for nurses, the book:

• Provides an overview of epidemiology, anatomy and physiology and an introduction to asthma medications.
• Follows patient experiences from initial symptoms, to diagnosis and the management and care of the condition.
• Explores the structure of care, with advice on how to improve patient care to meet local targets.
• Discusses the role of nurses in the future management of asthma care.

Health professionals are continually striving to improve their skills and knowledge. Nurses working in the community and clinicians in contact with asthma patients should find this book a useful tool in developing further their expertise.