Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

What is a critical fact regarding asthma that should be included in teacher education?

1. Asthma is a chronic disease with no potential for fatal outcomes

2. Most children with asthma have no respiratory symptoms at night

3. Asthma is the leading cause of acute illness in children

4. Asthma has the potential to be fatal

The correct answer is: Asthma has the potential to be fatal

Asthma is indeed a chronic condition that can have serious and potentially fatal outcomes. This is a critical fact for teacher education because it emphasizes the importance of understanding the severity and implications of asthma in children. Teachers need to be aware that asthma can lead to life-threatening situations, particularly if it is not managed properly, which includes recognizing signs of an asthma attack and knowing how to respond in emergencies. By focusing on the fatal potential of asthma, teachers can better appreciate the necessity for creating a safe environment for children with asthma, including ensuring that their medications are used correctly and that triggers are minimized. Understanding this risk also helps in fostering communication between teachers, parents, and healthcare providers to support the health and safety of students with asthma, ultimately leading to better management of the condition in school settings. The other options either downplay the severity of asthma or provide misleading information about the frequency and nature of symptoms, which could lead to insufficient awareness and inadequate response plans for children who may face asthma attacks in school.