An Integrated Medical and Nursing Management Model for Children with Allergic Rhinitis.

Abstract

Purpose: We aimed to explore the efficacy of an integrated medical and nursing management model in the treatment of children with allergic rhinitis (AR).

Design: We employed a before-after study design in this non-randomized concurrent control trial. In total, 73 patients completed the entire study including follow-up.

Methods: Seventy-three children with AR,  previously treated with intranasal corticosteroids (INCSs) without symptom improvement, were enrolled. An allergy nurse specialist provided step-by-step operation of INCSs and AR education to children and parents. Treatment compliance, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and Pediatric Rhino-conjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PRQLQ) results were assessed at baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention.

Findings:  Medication compliance improved from 46.6% to 96.6% at 4 weeks (P < 0.01). The total VAS of nasal symptoms scores decreased significantly [6 (3.5, 10) vs. 22 (14, 27), P < 0.01]. The total VAS of ocular symptoms scores decreased significantly [1 (0, 3.5) vs. 5 (1, 9), P < 0.01]. PRQLQ scores showed significant improvements in nasal symptoms [6 (4, 8) vs. 16 (9, 20), P < 0.01], ocular symptoms [0 (0, 2) vs. 1 (0, 6), P < 0. 01], practical problems [5 (1.5, 8) vs. 16 (8, 22), P < 0.01], other symptoms [6 (2, 8) vs. 14 (7, 22), P < 0.01], and emotional symptoms [2 (0, 4) vs. 8 (2, 12), P < 0.01].

Conclusions: The nurse specialist's involvement in managing children with AR enhanced treatment compliance, reduced symptoms, and improved quality of life.

Clinical evidence: This intervention not only benefited the children, but also enhanced nurses' roles in disease management and fostering professional value. We recommend its clinical application.