Extrait

Background and study aims A previous study of school-aged children with asthma carried out in routine practice settings suggested that computer-assisted learning (CAL) may improve children’s knowledge of their condition and its management. The aim of this study was to find out about the benefits of computer-based instruction about asthma for school-aged children, and to see whether unplanned asthma-related care was reduced during the following 3 years. If computer-generated instruction is shown to be beneficial it represents a potentially cost effective method which could be used in schools and healthcare settings. Who can participate? Children with asthma confirmed with medical records. What does the study involve? Children were randomly allocated to either the CAL group or the control group. Children in the control group received standard care. Children in the CAL group, using the computer program, were given additional instruction to that normally given on various aspects of their asthma. Following prior consent from the GPs of individual patients, a postal questionnaire was sent to patients to ascertain any type of unplanned asthma care, such as attendance at A&E, hospital admission or emergency calls to the GP. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Children in the CAL group may become more competent and confident in managing their own asthma. Where is the study run from? Nuffield Institute for Health, University of Leeds (UK). When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? The study ran from January 1993 to September 1995. Who is funding the study? NHS Executive Northern and Yorkshire (UK). Who is the main contact? Catherine Gleeson [email protected]

Critère d'inclusion

• Respiratory tract diseases: Asthma

Liens

• ictrp
• isrctn