Knowledge of Asthma among Caregivers of Asthmatic Children: Outcomes of Preliminary Education
Nuanchan Prapphal MD*, Naruenont Laosunthara MD*, Jitladda Deerojanawong MD*, Suchada Sritippayawan MD*
Affiliation : * Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
Objectives : To assess the knowledge of asthma among the caregivers of asthmatic children and to evaluate the
outcomes of preliminary education
Materials and Methods : The caregivers of asthmatic patients aged 2-15 years who attended the pediatric chest
clinic of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital from January to December 2003 were randomly recruited to
answer the questionnaire about asthma prior to the educational discussion with the investigators or nurses.
The questionnaire was done again 6 months later. The significant factors associated with adequate knowl-
edge and change of knowledge of the caregivers were identified.
Results : Among the 79 study caregivers, forty-two (53.2%) had sufficient knowledge of asthma (score > 34 out
of 44). The average pre-test score was 33 + 3.6 (24-42). The duration of caring for their asthmatic child was
the only significant factor associated with adequate knowledge (p < 0.05). After the educational session, the
post-test score was significantly improved (36.0 + 2.6; p <0.001).
Conclusion : Half of the caregivers of the asthmatic children had insufficient knowledge of asthma. Education
about asthma is still needed to improve their knowledge.
Keywords : Asthma, Children, Knowledge, Caregiver
