{{org_field_logo}}

{{org_field_name}}

Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

---

Asthma Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides safe, effective, and person-centred care for service users with asthma, in line with Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) regulations, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, and Public Health Wales guidance. This policy establishes clear procedures for managing asthma symptoms, administering medication, responding to asthma attacks, and supporting service users’ overall respiratory health.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, including care workers, nurses, administrative personnel, and management, who are responsible for supporting service users with asthma. It covers:

• Recognising asthma symptoms and triggers.
• Managing medication, including inhalers and nebulisers.
• Emergency response procedures for asthma attacks.
• Staff training requirements to ensure competency in asthma care.
• Maintaining accurate records and communication with healthcare professionals.

3. Understanding Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing (particularly at night or early morning)
• Chest tightness

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by:

• Allergens (dust mites, pollen, pet dander)
• Airborne irritants (smoke, pollution, strong odours)
• Respiratory infections (colds, flu, chest infections)
• Physical activity
• Cold air or sudden temperature changes
• Stress and anxiety

4. Identifying and Managing Asthma Triggers

To reduce the likelihood of asthma exacerbations, staff must:

• Identify and document known asthma triggers for each service user.
• Implement environmental control measures, such as reducing dust accumulation and ensuring good ventilation.
• Monitor and record any changes in symptoms to identify new or worsening triggers.
• Educate service users and their families about asthma management and trigger avoidance.

5. Medication Management

Asthma medications fall into two main categories:

• Reliever inhalers (e.g., Salbutamol) – Used during asthma attacks or when symptoms occur.
• Preventer inhalers (e.g., steroid-based inhalers) – Taken daily to reduce inflammation and prevent attacks.

5.1 Administration of Inhalers

• All staff administering medication must follow the Medication Administration Policy.
• Service users who can self-administer must be supported to do so, with staff supervision as required.
• Inhalers must be stored securely but easily accessible in case of an emergency.
• Staff must ensure that inhalers are within their expiry date and used correctly.

5.2 Use of Spacers and Nebulisers

• Some service users may require a spacer device to aid inhaler use; staff must be trained in proper technique.
• Nebulisers must only be used following a healthcare professional’s guidance, with strict adherence to infection control procedures.
• Cleaning and maintenance of nebulisers must be recorded and performed as per manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Emergency Response to an Asthma Attack

All staff must be trained to respond effectively to an asthma attack:

1. Encourage the service user to stay calm and sit upright.
2. Assist them in taking their reliever inhaler (usually blue), using a spacer if needed.
3. Monitor symptoms – If there is no improvement after five minutes, repeat the inhaler dose.
4. Call 999 immediately if:
   • Symptoms worsen or do not improve after inhaler use.
   • The service user is unable to speak due to breathlessness.
   • The service user becomes unconscious.
5. Continue providing reassurance and monitor breathing until emergency help arrives.
6. Record the incident in the service user’s care plan and inform their GP and next of kin.

7. Staff Training and Competency

All staff must receive mandatory asthma management training, which includes:

• Recognising early signs of worsening asthma.
• Correct inhaler and spacer techniques.
• Emergency procedures for asthma attacks.
• Understanding the impact of environmental factors on asthma.

Training must be refreshed annually to ensure competency and compliance with best practice guidelines.

8. Communication and Record-Keeping

• Each service user’s Asthma Care Plan must be developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
• Any changes in medication, symptoms, or triggers must be documented and communicated to relevant staff.
• Asthma attacks and interventions must be recorded in the incident log and reported to the Registered Manager.
• Regular reviews with GPs and respiratory specialists should be conducted to ensure optimal asthma management.

9. Infection Control and Hygiene Measures

• Inhalers and nebuliser masks must not be shared.
• Nebuliser tubing and masks must be cleaned after each use to prevent infections.
• Staff must adhere to hand hygiene and PPE protocols when assisting service users with asthma-related care.

10. Compliance and Monitoring

The Registered Manager is responsible for:

• Ensuring all staff complete asthma management training.
• Conducting regular audits of asthma care plans and medication administration.
• Monitoring compliance with CIW guidelines and NICE standards.
• Reviewing this policy annually or sooner if changes in asthma management guidelines occur.

11. Related Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

• CHW11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CHW16 – Health and Safety at Work Policy
• CHW17 – Infection Prevention and Control Policy
• CHW21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy
• CHW36 – Initial Assessment and Care Planning Policy

12. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if required due to updates in CIW regulations, NICE guidelines, or changes in asthma management best practices.

---

Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
Copyright © {{current_year}} – {{org_field_name}}. All rights reserved.