Pediatric Asthma Environmental Triggers

Concept

Environmental conditions have a tremendous impact on the health and welfare of pediatric asthma patients.

Social work's contribution to the protection of child health by assessing indoor environmental asthma triggers is a challenging but crucial activity.

Goal

To provide patient caregivers with the information necessary to raise awareness of the indoor asthma triggers that may be present in their homes and increase confidence in managing their child's asthma.

Understanding Asthma Triggers

Identifying and managing common indoor environmental factors that can worsen asthma symptoms

Environmental Trigger Education

What are the indoor environmental triggers that affect asthma symptom onset?

Tobacco Smoke, Vaping , Cannabis smoke
Pests (cockroaches, mice)
Mold/Fungi
Pet Dander
Dust Mites
Endotoxins

Control Measures

Clean the home to reduce dust mites and pet dander
Cover bedding with anti-allergenic plastic covers
Clean visible mold and stop water leaks
Clean HVAC air filters regularly
Keep food sealed and dispose trash properly
Keep windows closed during allergy season
Don't let pets sleep with asthma patients
No smoking in the home or car

Assessment Tools

Key questions and observations for evaluating asthma triggers in the home environment

Questions for Patient or Family

Do you understand how environmental triggers affect asthma?
How much will reducing triggers help your child?
How much will recognizing early symptoms help?
Can you provide medications during attacks?
Do you have access to rescue treatments?
Do you understand medical directions?
Do you have transportation to appointments?
Do you have an asthma action plan?
Have you discussed the plan with the nurse?

Home Assessment

What stressors affect the child at home?
Is there obvious mold growth? Where?
Are pets allowed? Do they sleep with child?
Is the home in good repair? Any leaks?
Are there pests? Food sealed properly?
Good housekeeping in kitchen?
Visible mold/mildew? Smokers in home?

Make a Difference

Use this information for quick reference. Identify and partner with caregivers and service personnel. Be an advocate for your clients.

You can make a difference in pediatric asthma.

Asthma Care Quick Reference

Clinical guidelines for managing pediatric asthma based on NIH Expert Panel Report 3

Diagnosis & Monitoring

Initial Visit: Assess severity to initiate treatment

Follow-up: Monitor control every 1-6 months

Spirometry: Required for patients ≥5 years

Key Symptoms to Assess:

Cough, wheezing, chest tightness

Nighttime awakenings

Activity limitations

Medication Management

Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS): Preferred long-term control

SABA: Short-acting relief (limit to ≤2 days/week)

LABA: Never as monotherapy (use with ICS)

Stepwise Approach:

Step Up: If control is not well maintained

Step Down: After 3 months of good control

Asthma Action Plan Essentials

Daily management instructions

Medication adjustments for worsening symptoms

Emergency contact information

When to seek medical help

Download NIH Asthma Action Plan Template

Asthma Environmental Triggers Video Series

Learn how to identify and manage asthma triggers in school environments