Paediatric asthma and smoking – initiative to identify and treat
Outcomes and learning
Outcomes
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Increased FeNO testing on the ward and in community. All those attending a community appointment received a FeNO test.
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2 children assessed for eligibility for asthma biologics, leading to 1 referral and uptake of mepolizumab.
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Around 95% of adults identified as smokers accepted referral to the Smoke Free app or local stop-smoking service provider.
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Anecdotal reduction in re-admissions and reduced length of stay.
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Creation of smoke-free homes.
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Educational resources co-produced and co-designed with the community that resonated more with the target audiences.
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Increased interest and focus from other localities in taking a household approach to asthma management in children and young people.
Learning
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Identified that healthcare settings outside of the ward are more suitable for FeNO testing as it is difficult to gain a reading on the ward due to the recent asthma exacerbation of the individual.
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FeNO testing should take place at the earliest opportunity whether that be with the GP or other community follow ups.
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All nursing and medical ward staff should be able to identify asthmatics and smokers and provide management support and smoking cessation advice.
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Uptake of and continued engagement with stop-smoking services may be improved with the use of incentives.
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To ensure care is given in the most appropriate setting, the lessons learned have now been implemented in the second iteration of the project taking place in Tameside. While stop-smoking support will continue at all care settings, the Tameside project focuses on shifting FeNO testing in the community, better equipping GPs with the tools and education to diagnose and manage asthma in children and young people.
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