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Family-centered nursing improves asthma control and lung function in preschool childrenFamily-centered nursing improves asthma control for preschool children

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Key Takeaway
Consider family-centered nursing to improve asthma control and lung function in preschool children.

This meta-analysis evaluated the impact of family-centered nursing interventions compared to routine care for preschool children with asthma. The analysis synthesized data from several randomized controlled trials to assess primary and secondary outcomes, including asthma control, lung function, and caregiver management capacity.

Key findings indicate that family-centered nursing significantly improved Asthma Control Test scores (MD = 2.49; 95% CI: 1.15-3.83) and lung function indicators (MD = 6.53; 95% CI: 1.03-12.03). Quality of life scores also improved (SMD = 1.02; 95% CI: 0.52-1.51). Additionally, the intervention was associated with a higher symptom control rate (RR = 5.24; 95% CI: 3.14-8.73) and a higher caregiver knowledge mastery rate (RR = 2.36; 95% CI: 1.30-4.29). Notably, the rehospitalization rate was reduced (RR = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.11-0.55).

Clinicians should note that the results for symptom control, caregiver knowledge, and rehospitalization were based on only 3 studies each. The evidence suggests that family-centered nursing can effectively improve clinical symptoms and lung function while enhancing caregiver management capacity and reducing medical resource utilization in this pediatric population.

How this fits prior evidence

This meta-analysis addresses a gap in evidence regarding non-pharmacological management for pediatric asthma. While prior coverage noted that distinct genetic architectures and lung eQTLs differentiate mild from moderate-to-severe asthma phenotypes, this study focuses on the clinical impact of nursing interventions on symptoms and caregiver capacity. It does not relate to the efficacy of OM-85 or the use of biologics for rhinosinusitis.

Managing asthma in young children is a constant challenge for parents. It requires constant vigilance and a clear plan to keep kids breathing easily. New data shows that a family-centered nursing approach can make a real difference for these little ones. This method focuses on the whole family unit, not just the child's medical symptoms.

Researchers looked at data from 457 children to see how this approach compared to routine care. They found that children who received family-centered nursing had better asthma control scores and improved lung function. These children also showed a higher rate of symptom control and a better quality of life compared to those receiving standard care.

Beyond the children's health, the approach helped the parents too. Caregivers showed a higher rate of knowledge mastery and better management skills. Most importantly, the data showed a lower rate of rehospitalization for the children. While some findings like rehospitalization rates were based on only three studies, the overall results suggest this approach helps families manage asthma more effectively.

What this means for you:
Family-centered nursing improves lung function and quality of life for preschoolers with asthma.

Common questions

How does family-centered nursing help my child with asthma?

This approach focuses on the whole family. For preschool children, it led to improved asthma control scores, better lung function, and a higher rate of symptom control. It also improved the overall quality of life for the children involved in the study.

Does this method help parents manage their child's condition?

Yes. The study found that caregivers who received family-centered nursing had a higher rate of knowledge mastery. This means parents felt better equipped to manage their child's asthma symptoms and care needs compared to those receiving routine care.

Can this approach reduce hospital visits?

The data showed a lower rate of rehospitalization for children receiving family-centered nursing. However, it is important to note that this specific finding was based on only three studies in the analysis.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis
EvidenceLevel 1
PublishedSep 2026
View Original Abstract ↓
IntroductionSystematic evaluation of the impact of family-centered nursing interventions on asthma control and caregiver management abilities in preschool children with asthma.MethodsRandomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from database inception to December 2025 were searched in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, and Chinese databases. Literature screening and data extraction were independently completed by two researchers, and the quality was evaluated by the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0). Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software.ResultsA total of 15 RCTs involving 457 children were included. The meta-analysis results showed that, compared with routine care, family-centered nursing interventions significantly improved the Asthma Control Test score (MD = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.15–3.83), quality of life score (SMD = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.52–1.51), and lung function indicators (MD = 6.53, 95% CI: 1.03–12.03). Furthermore, family-centered nursing interventions significantly increased the symptom control rate (3 studies, RR = 5.24, 95% CI: 3.14–8.73) and caregiver knowledge mastery rate (3 studies, RR = 2.36, 95% CI: 1.30–4.29), while reducing the rehospitalization rate (3 studies, RR = 0.24, 95% CI: 0.11–0.55).ConclusionFamily-centered nursing intervention can effectively improve outcomes associated with clinical symptoms, lung function and quality of life in preschool children with asthma, enhance caregivers’ asthma management capacity and reduce the use of medical resources, which is worthy of popularization and application in clinical practice.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://inplasy.com/?s=INPLASY202670039, identifier INPLASY202670039.
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