A new video presentation on asthma and its management is available for loan from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s audio-visual service.
The video begins by outlining the pathophysiology and epidemiology of asthma. It discusses the factors that may trigger an attack and describes symptoms and diagnosis. It includes an explanation of the role of pulmonary function tests in the diagnosis and management of the condition. The video then describes the British Thoracic Society's guidelines for the treatment of asthma. It emphasises the stepwise approach to treatment in both adults and children, including the use of self-management plans.
The second part of the presentation discusses the drugs used in asthma management — beta-2 agonists, anticholinergics, corticosteroids, cromoglycate, methylxanthines and leukotriene receptor antagonists. It sets out the benefits and disadvantages of each class of drug and the place of different drugs in current therapy.
Finally, the video explains how to recognise the symptoms of a severe asthmatic attack so that referral can be made promptly. It discusses the management of severe, acute asthmatic attacks, and emphasises the importance of checking compliance and inhaler technique.
The 60-minute video has been produced by the Welsh Centre for Postgraduate Pharmaceutical Education.
Pharmacists in Britain who wish to borrow the new video should contact the Audio-Visual Service, Royal Pharmaceutical Society, 1 Lambeth High Street, London SE1 7JN (tel 020 7735 9141 ext 347), quoting the reference number RES08 and giving their own registration number. There is no loan charge and return postage is free, using a prepaid label. A booklet giving details of all the video and tape/slide presentations available from the service can be obtained from the same address.
Copies of the new presentation are also available for purchase in both video and CD-ROM formats. Purchase inquiries should be made to Dr D. J. Temple, Director of Postgraduate Studies, Welsh School of Pharmacy, University of Wales, King Edward 7th Avenue, Cardiff CF1 3XF (tel 029 2087 4784).