Managing asthma in children requires collaboration between health care providers, parents, and caregivers. ALL children with asthma should have an Asthma Action Plan filled out by their healthcare provider.
The South Texas Asthma Coalition (STAC) has released a new, updated Asthma Action Plan for 2024.
The Asthma Action Plan is now a fillable form (PDF) designed to be completed electronically. The electronic template allows you to complete the plan using the pull-down selections and clicking appropriate boxes. If you wish to select a medication/dose/instruction that is not listed on the pull-down menu, you can type in your selection.
Instructions
Download the updated STAC Asthma Action Plan and follow these general recommendations:
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- If typing instructions instead of selecting a dropdown option, use plain language (e.g. “Four times a day”)
- Assure the copy is signed by the PCP
- Give at least TWO copies to family (home and school) and keep one copy for medical record
- Select whether the patient is allowed to self-administer the inhaler. If a selection is not made, the provider will be unable to sign the form electronically.
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Provider should complete medications prescribed for each zone (GREEN, YELLOW, RED)
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- Provider must specify the name of the medication, dosage, when to take it, and check the box for where it can be taken (home/school).
- GREEN Zone: Preventative medication(s)
- YELLOW Zone: Quick-relief medication(s)
- RED Zone: Emergency medication(s)
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Additional Guidance
Identifying Triggers: Work with the family to identify triggers that exacerbate the child’s asthma. Consider elements such as allergens, environmental exposures, and specific activities.
Medication Management: Choose and clearly outline any prescriptions for daily controller and rescue medications based on severity/control for each zone and whether it is to be given at home, school, or both. Highlight the importance of adherence and correct inhaler technique. Select the most appropriate option for medication self-administration.
Symptom Monitoring: Determine guidelines for monitoring asthma symptoms. Review Asthma Action Plan zones (GREEN, YELLOW, and RED) with parents and child to educate them on symptoms and when to administer medication appropriately. Promote open communication with parents to address any developing issues quickly.
Emergency Response: Develop a detailed emergency response plan (RED zone) detailing steps for escalating care during severe asthma exacerbations. Ensure parents are well equipped to handle emergencies and know when immediate medical attention is required.
Communication and Education: Provide parents with education on asthma management, covering symptom recognition, proper medication administration and the importance of adherence. Advise parents to share the Asthma Action Plan with everyone involved in the child’s care; the child’s primary caretaker, daycare provider, school nurse, coach, after-school coordinator, and anyone else in charge of their child’s care, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated approach.
- Community First offers Members Health & Wellness Programs, including Asthma Matters: Asthma Management Program. If you feel a patient could use more support with asthma education and care management, please refer them, and a Health Educator will contact them. You can refer a Member by calling Population Health Management at 210-358-6055 or emailing healthyhelp@cfhp.com. Asthma Matters participants may be eligible to receive*:
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- $80 in gift cards for completing San Antonio Kids BREATHE home visits
- $10 gift card for getting a flu shot
- Mask with aerosol chamber
- Allergy-free pillow protector
- $10 gift card for completing required asthma education
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Routine Reviews & Updates
Schedule regular follow-up appointments to evaluate the child’s Asthma Action Plan. Adjust the plan as necessary based on the child’s response to treatment and any changes in triggers or symptoms.
A cooperative approach involving Providers, parents, and the child is indispensable for effective asthma management. By implementing an individualized Asthma Action Plan Providers significantly contribute to the well-being of children with asthma, fostering a healthier future.
Provider Resources
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- Questions about the STAC Asthma Action Plan should be directed to Mandie Tibball Svatek, MD at 210-450-5364 or svatekm@uthscsa.edu.
- If you’d like printed copies for your office setting, please contact Community First Population Health Management at 210-358-6055 or email healthyhelp@cfhp.com.
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