Emergency department management of pediatric acute asthma: an evidence-based review

Pediatr Emerg Med Pract. 2023 Jul;20(7):1-28. Epub 2023 Jul 1.

Abstract

Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood. Although home action plans and the use of maintenance medications have improved daily management and control of asthma, many children still require emergency department care at least once per year. Emergency clinicians must be able to manage patients with acute asthma exacerbations and determine their safe disposition. This issue reviews the current evidence-based emergency department management recommendations for moderate to severe acute asthma in pediatric patients. Timely use of bronchodilators and systemic corticosteroids, as well as adjunct modalities, are discussed. Current challenges in asthma management related to vaping and COVID-19 are also addressed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Asthma* / drug therapy
  • Asthma* / therapy
  • Bronchodilator Agents / therapeutic use
  • COVID-19*
  • Child
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Humans

Substances

  • Bronchodilator Agents
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones