LAUSR

Introduction: Asthma education is one of the most important component in therapy. Different types of asthma education programs are used in clinics Aim: To evaluate the effects of two different education programs (individual and group asthma education programs) on symptoms, pulmonary function tests and knowledge levels on disease in patients with asthma Method: 87 patients with stabil asthma were randomised into individual education (n=45) and group education (n=42). Individual education group received one to one education. Group education was performed with groups consisting of 6-10 patients. Every education lessons was 40 minutes in two groups. Groups received asthma education triggering factors, symptoms, treatment, peak flow meter, inhalation techniques, respiratory and relaxation exercises. Dyspnea cough and daily life activities evaluated with Visual Analogue Scale, a likert questionnaire was used to assess asthma knowledge. Pulmonary function tests applied according to ATS criteria. The patients were evaluated before and 7 weeks after education. Results: After education, disease related symptoms decreased, pulmonary functions tests and knowledge levels on asthma increased in both education groups (p 0,05). Conclusion: Both types of education were effective in decrease symptoms, increase pulmonary functions tests and knowledge about asthma in patients with asthma. We think that especially individual education may more effective in asthma patients.