Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management. NICE NG80, November 2017

This summary covers the NICE guideline on the diagnosis, monitoring and management of chronic asthma. The guideline aims to improve the accuracy of diagnosis, help people control their asthma and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.

British guideline on the management of asthma. BTS/SIGN 2019

The 2019 update of the BTS/SIGN asthma guideline places increased emphasis on the importance of monitoring control, and assessing the risk of future asthma attacks at every review. The approach to pharmacological management has been simplified.

Global strategy for asthma management and prevention (GINA), 2018

The latest GINA report clarifies the concept of independent risk factors for exacerbation and puts new emphasis on the importance of uncontrolled asthma symptoms. It also updates advice about FeNO testing in diagnosis and ongoing treatment.

Global strategy for asthma management and prevention (GINA), 2017

GINA updated its strategy for asthma management and prevention for adults and children older than 5 years. Its recommendations are based on twice-yearly reviews of relevant evidence by an expert scientific committee, and provide a benchmark against which healthcare professionals can judge national guidance, which may not be updated as frequently.

When guidelines collide – part one: asthma diagnosis

Beverley Bostock-Cox, Practice Nurse 2018;48(06):20-24

There is a plethora of guidelines available to guide healthcare professionals in the diagnosis of asthma, but sometimes the recommendations are conflicting. This article aims to help make sense of the key differences.

When guidelines collide – part two: asthma treatment

Beverley Bostock-Cox, Practice Nurse 2018;48(07):20-24

The three main asthma guidelines used in the UK contain conflicting recommendations, but there is also common ground. Familiarity with the key points will help healthcare professionals ‘pick and mix’ to suit the individual patient.

Inhaled therapy: all in the technique

Rachel Booker, Practice Nurse 2014;44(01):14-17

Poor inhaler technique is widespread and undermines the effectiveness of therapy. Furthermore, there is evidence that healthcare professionals are not always able to demonstrate and teach correct technique. This article covers the basic principles including inspiratory flow rate and teaching aids.