What nurses in primary care practices know about asthma care: Results from a national survey

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to characterize what nurses working in primary care settings know about asthma care. Current views on the care of persons with asthma suggest the need for sound knowledge of guideline-based care and a health care team that includes both physicians, nurses, and other providers. While there are reports of physician-related asthma care practices in the United States, there are few, if any, reports of nursing knowledge, attitudes, or beliefs about asthma care. Methods: A national, randomly selected, representative sample of nurses working in ambulatory primary care settings was interviewed by telephone using a structured interview format. Results: Of a sample of 80 nurses, less than 10% identified inflammation of the airways as the underlying condition that causes asthma symptoms. Fifty-one percent believed the underlying condition could be treated, while 44% believed only the symptoms could be treated, and 5% didn't know. Only 35% said they were aware of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood (NHLBI) asthma guidelines. Conclusions: Nurses working in ambulatory primary care settings may lack sufficient knowledge to effectively teach and participate in asthma care.