Scope and Target Population:

The guideline will address the management of patients (age 5 and older) with asthma in the ER and inpatient hospital setting.

Clinical Highlights and Recommendations:

1. Assess severity using objective measures; treatment corresponds to each level.
   
2. Provide the opportunity for asthma education in the ER and/or inpatient settings.
   
3. Corticosteroids should be used in the treatment of acute asthma.
   
4. Early intervention with Bi-level PAP may prevent mechanical intubations.
   
5. Patients receive appropriate follow-up as per Diagnosis and Management of Asthma guideline.
   

Priority Aims:

1. Improve the timely and accurate assessment of patients presenting with an asthma exacerbation.
   
2. Improve the treatment and management of inpatient asthma.