THE EFFECT OF NURSE-LED EDUCATION REGARDING DAILY LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION AND PATIENT EDUCATION ON THE MANAGEMENT OF PEDIATRIC ATOPIC DERMATITIS

Aim: This study was conducted using action research methodology to try and find out what would happen if evidence-based, nurse-led education regarding Atopic Dermatitis was implemented. The research question was: (1) can targeted nursing interventions and education increase parent confidence in dealing with a diagnosis of AD; (2) lower the parents overall stress level; (3) lower the child's overall stress level; and (4) and increase the child’s comfort level? Method: A Convenience sample of 10 pediatric patients with a current medical diagnosis of Atopic Dermatitis and at least one legal caregiver with a self-report of misinformation or a lack of education regarding Atopic Dermatitis. The Transtheoretical Model of Change was implemented to provide a foundation of education that was rooted in evidence-based theory. Background: Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis (AD) patients and their families become frustrated and tired of battling this chronic skin disorder. Parenting a child with a chronic illness can result in significant physical and psychological strain (Streisand, Mackey, & Herge, 2010). The incidence of pediatric Atopic Dermatitis has increased 2 to 3 fold in the last 30 years, and the condition is a common reason for pediatric visits to family physicians (Buys, 2007). Dermatology is a highly specialized field, and short of handing the patient or parent a prescription for a steroid, very little patient education follows an Atopic Dermatitis diagnosis. Results: Introductory telephone calls indicated the need for substantial education about the pathophysiology of AD and non-pharmacologic methods to treat AD. The telephone call and the Facebook support group provided the above referenced education during the study. Both the week three and final questionnaires provided overwhelmingly positive responses during both phases of the study. Conclusion: Targeted nursing interventions and education can increase parent confidence in dealing with a diagnosis of AD; (2) lower the parents overall stress level; (3) lower the child's overall stress level; and (4) and increase the child’s comfort level.