Asthma: knowledge and practice patterns of Louisiana family physicians
Zoorab, R.; Wormuth, C.; McCarthy-Larzelere, M.
Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society Official Organ of the Louisiana State Medical Society 154(3): 136-140
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-6921 PMID: 12139358 Document Number: 543067
This study examines the practice patterns of Louisiana family physicians in managing asthma with attention to National Asthma Education Program (NAEP) guidelines. A confidential two-page, multiple choice, 24-question survey was faxed to the 550 active members of the Louisiana Academy of Family Practitioners. It included questions related to the use of peak flow meters and pulse oximetry, nedocromil, theophylline, beta 2 agonists, suppressive antibiotics, inhaled steroids, as well as knowledge of published guidelines for classifying and treating asthma. Most of those who participated have an appropriate knowledge of asthma classification, but a sharp drop in the knowledge of the correct management of step 4 asthma was seen. A minority of respondents claimed knowledge of the NIH guidelines, but their management patterns for adult step 1, 2, and 3 asthma were largely in agreement with the guidelines. Unlike previous studies in the literature, this one shows good knowledge and reported practice compliance with the NAEP guidelines by Louisiana family physicians.