Experiences of caregivers of asthmatic children regarding implementation of an asthma education programme at a community health centre in Cape Town

Abstract

This study explored the experiences of caregivers of children with asthma regarding implementation of an asthma education programme at a community health centre in the Western Cape. The study explored the experiences of caregivers living with and helping the young asthmatic child when asthma symptoms first appear; their views and experiences on implementation of the asthma education programme; and their understanding of the expectations of them as caregivers, based on the guidelines provided to them. An exploratory, descriptive, contextual design was employed. Caregivers of children with asthma participated in semi-structured interviews which were guided by use of an interview schedule containing open-ended questions. The sample was derived through purposive sampling of caregivers who attended the health facility. Thematic analysis of the data was conducted. The results showed that caregivers found the education programme useful, and they reported that it was offered at a level that was easy for them to understand. Caregivers suggested that the programme should continue because they learned something new every time they attended the asthma clinic at the community health centre. Practical demonstrations were found to be particularly useful. It was clear that caregivers were aware of what was expected of them and that the education programme has assisted them in their caregiver role, despite the fact that they still experience moments of fear when the child has an asthma attack.