--RN triage-Asthma Symptoms- (wheezing, coughing, SOB, chest congestion, chest tightness)
Fever?
Fever >100
No Fever
--schedule PFT/OV
(that day)
or see PCP
Is patient using correct dose of maintenance
medication (for at least 48 hours)
and rescue MDI?
No
--use rescue inhaler
clears
does not clear,
or holds for less
less than 4hrs.
--take all
--schedule
medications
urgent OV/PFT*
as directed
or to PCP or ER
--advise to call back
immediately if comes
to need rescue
inhaler at less than
a 4 hr interval
Yes
Does rescue inhaler eliminate
symptoms for 4 hrs or more?
Yes
No
--continue
--schedule
treatment,
urgent OV/PFT*
--instruct to call
or to PCP or ER
immediately if comes
to need rescue
inhaler at less than
a 4 hr interval
* note: if impossible to schedule PFT that day, still schedule OV