Breathing Matters

Vol. 2003, Issue 14

New Resources from the National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute

The National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Slide Shows are available on-line: · School Asthma Education Slide Set · Expert Panel Report 2 (EPR-2): Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma

The PowerPoint 97 slide sets are for use by the public and can be downloaded for use in computer slide shows, online viewing, or for conventional slide presentations. Part 1 Presents background information about the growing problem of asthma in the U.S., what asthma is, what school staff should know about helping students to manage their asthma, including triggers and warning signs of asthma episodes (attacks). Part 2 Outlines five goals important for good asthma management in school settings. Each goal is followed by action steps that schools can take to move them closer toward the goal. These slides provide the guidance needed by an audience that is ready to make changes for a more asthma-friendly school environment.

Expert Panel Report 2 (EPR-2): Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma is available for use in combination with the School Asthma Education slide set.

The EPR-2 is available as a pdf version or as slides. The slide set is particularly useful in expanding the basic school information to develop a more detailed presentation that focuses on the medical management of asthma and the importance of partnerships (with health care providers, families and school personnel) to provide education and support to people with asthma.

The Expert Panel Report has implications for all involved in the care of patients with asthma, including lay public and healthcare providers of all specialties.