ABSTRACT
Asthma is a common condition and is increasing in prevalence. Many preventable deaths are due to poor assessment, and failure to recognise the features of life-threatening asthma. A diagnosis of asthma is suggested by the presence of a history of episodic wheeze, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cough. It is very important to assess a patient with an exacerbation of asthma properly. Patients should be regularly re-assessed to ensure continued improvement, and for early detection of any signs of lifethreatening asthma. Poor assessment, or failure to identify signs of life-threatening asthma may prove fatal to the patient. The patient has deteriorated. Since admission, she has developed signs of life-threatening asthma. Clinical improvement, based on regular reassessment is the best way to decide when a patient is ‘safe’ to discharge. A multidisciplinary team (MDT) is a team of professionals from different specialties brought together to ensure the best care is provided for the patient.
