Severe bronchial asthma requiring ventilation. A review of 20 cases and advice on management. Issue 641 (March 1979)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Webb, A. K.; Bilton, A. H.; Hanson, G. C.
• Is Part Of: Postgraduate medical journal. Volume 55:Issue 641(1979)
• Page Start: 161
• Page End: 170
• Publication Date: 1979-03
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/pgmj.55.641.161
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-5473

Abstract

Abstract : The natural history and outcome of 20 asthmatics who required mechanical ventilation is reviewed. Seven of these patients died. The majority of the deaths could have been prevented if: (1) The patient had been followed-up in an asthma clinic and had been fully informed of the danger of an asthmatic attack. (2) The medical staff had been trained more fully in the evaluation and management of a severe asthma attack. Careful sequential assessment will enable timely transfer of patients with severe bronchial asthma to a unit experienced in their management.