Master's Theses or Doctor of Nursing Practice

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Department

Nursing

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Abstract

Purpose. Asthma is a leading cause of school absenteeism, reduced participation in activities, and long-term health complications if not well controlled during childhood (Isik et al., 2020; Pegoraro et al., 2022; Simoneau et al., 2019). Asthma Action Plans (AAPs) are evidence-based tools to guide asthma management by outlining baseline status, symptom progression, and medication use. This project aimed to increase the number of AAPs on file for students with asthma and to enhance asthma education among school staff and students to improve asthma self-management. Methods. A review of student health histories identified students with asthma in an urban elementary school in Kansas. AAPs were requested from healthcare providers for all students requiring medication at school. School staff received in-person instruction and an educational handout on asthma symptom recognition, while health office staff completed online asthma training. Students were educated on inhaler use and symptom monitoring as needed. Results. Eight of the 23 students identified with asthma required medication at school and AAPs were obtained for each. However, incomplete or missing documentation limited the AAPs’ effectiveness in guiding asthma care in the school setting. Conclusion. The project improved AAP collection and asthma education; however, barriers to full implementation underscore the need for increased provider collaboration and standardized AAP completion. Addressing these challenges could enhance asthma management in schools, bridging the gap between research and practice.

Keywords

Asthma, school-aged, communication, school nurse, asthma action plan

Advisor

Dr. Cathryn Preisner

Date of Award

Spring 2025

Document Type

DNP Project

Rights

© The Author

Additional Files
2025_DNP_Rayfield, L Poster.pdf (471 kB)
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