Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology
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Acute asthma exacerbations can be life threatening and are recognizable to emergency medical service (EMS) personnel; however, the therapies and medications which these emergency service personnel can use to treat exacerbations are limited. Several studies have demonstrated the effective use of beta2-agonist therapy in the treatment of patients complaining of wheezing or dyspnea, yet few EMS personnel can administer them. ⋯ We conclude that due to the rural nature of New Mexico, EMS personnel should be trained in the use of beta2 agonists and allowed to administer them to patients with acute asthma exacerbations. In addition, standard protocols for the pre-hospital management of acute asthma exacerbations should be instituted.
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Ann. Allergy Asthma Immunol. · Oct 1998
Cross-sectional analysis of the relationship between national guideline recommended asthma drug therapy and emergency/hospital use within a managed care population.
Nationally recognized clinical guidelines provide recommended therapies for the treatment of asthma. Research demonstrating the impact of guideline recommended drug therapy on utilization [emergency department (ED) and hospitalizations] is beneficial when considering these guidelines for managing asthmatics within a managed care setting. ⋯ Assessment of asthma therapy in a managed care population demonstrates that there is a lower proportionate use of the ED and hospital in those patients treated in accordance to the asthma guideline recommendations.