Candidate’s Card

Setting: General Practice Clinic

Background: You are a general practitioner seeing a mother who has brought in her 8-year-old child diagnosed with asthma. The mother is concerned about managing the condition, particularly during flare-ups and in different environments. She wants to know about medications, triggers, and lifestyle changes that can help manage her child’s asthma.

Task:

• Explain the purpose and correct usage of asthma medications, emphasizing the distinction between daily preventer inhalers and quick-relief reliever inhalers. Highlight the importance of consistent use and proper technique.
• Discuss common asthma triggers such as allergens, irritants, and cold air, and provide practical advice on how to reduce exposure. Suggest measures like maintaining a clean environment and avoiding known triggers.
• Ask the mother about her child’s current lifestyle, including any physical activities or dietary habits, to better understand potential areas for improvement. Use this information to offer tailored advice on lifestyle changes that can help manage asthma.
• Reassure the mother that with the right treatment plan and proactive management, asthma can be effectively controlled. Offer strategies for handling flare-ups, such as creating an asthma action plan and knowing when to seek medical attention.