Perceptions of parents and children regarding asthma management responsibilities.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine perceptions of children and parents regarding shared responsibilities for asthma management.

DESIGN AND METHODS

The study included 72 children with asthma who were between the ages of 7 and 12 years and their parents. Asthma management responsibilities were assessed by the "Asthma Responsibility Questionnaire."

RESULTS

Disagreements occurred between parents and children on assuming responsibility. Children reported higher asthma management responsibility scores than reported by parents for them.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

It is important that nurses provide education and counseling to both children and their families to ensure that children take responsibility for disease management.