Identifying Parental Preferences for Corticosteroid and Inhaled Beta-Agonist Delivery Mode in Children With Acute Asthma Exacerbations

Abstract

This study examines caregiver preferences of single-dose dexamethasone (DEX) versus 5-day oral prednisolone in treating acute asthma exacerbation in a pediatric emergency department (PED). A secondary objective was preference for mode of home inhaled β-agonist administration. Caregivers of patients 2 to 18 years with an acute asthma exacerbation treated in the PED completed a 1-page questionnaire including asthma history and preferences for steroids and β-agonist administration. One hundred caregivers completed the questionnaire. Within the preceding year, 79% had an asthma exacerbation and 73.7% (n = 99) were prescribed prednisolone. DEX was preferred by 79% of caregivers. Preferences were independent of caregiver demographics except in cases of prior intensive care admission, where DEX was less favored (odds ratio = 0.27, P < .046). No difference existed in mode of home β-agonist administration. Most caregivers prefer DEX in acute asthma exacerbation management. No difference exists for home β-agonists. These results may advise clinical practice in pediatric acute asthma exacerbation.