25th November 2002
PARENT-DOCTOR COMMUNICATION BREAKDOWN
Parents should improve their communication with doctors about medication prescribed to their child, researchers claim.
The suggestion comes after a study found that many parents are unaware of the potential side effects associated with children's asthma medication. A team of researchers surveyed 574 doctors, nurses and parents of children who have asthma. Nearly 60 per cent of parents felt they weren't provided with all the information needed about asthma treatments, and about 40 per cent admitted their child didn't take the medication as often as their doctor prescribed it.
Both doctors and nurses admitted concern at the continued use of high-dose inhaled steroid treatments, even though some children desperately needed treatment. A total of 94 per cent of GPs and 80 per cent of nurses said they were worried about long-term use and 89 per cent of doctors and 92 per cent of nurses said they'd prefer to introduce an alternative add-on therapy - new types of drugs used as alternatives to steroids - rather than increase the dose of steroid inhalers.
Professor David Price, from the University of Aberdeen, said the study, "demonstrates a clear need for improved communication between healthcare professionals and parents."
Using high doses of steroids for a long time can cause a number of problems, including thinning of the bones and growth difficulties. Recommendations state that children should have the lowest dose of steroids possible to avoid these problems, but in some cases, it's ineffective.
Donna Covey, chief executive of the National Asthma Campaign, added, "We would encourage parents to discuss any concerns regarding their child's treatment with their GP or nurse. In this way, parents can work in partnership with their GP or nurse to ensure that their child receives the best asthma care possible."
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