■ The new 1997 BTS guidelines highlight the importance of recommending the avoidance of provoking factors where possible
■ Requesting reduction of exposure to allergens may be desirable, however such measures may not be practical and cannot guarantee success
■ Provision of information, education and support in relation to allergen reduction measures is a major aspect of the nurse's role in the asthma and allergy unit
■ Educating parents about possible trigger factors will help them to manage their child's asthma thus leading to a better quality of life
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