Article Text
Abstract
Children with severe asthma may be treated with biologic agents normally requiring 2–4 weekly injections in hospital. In March 2020, due to COVID-19, we needed to minimise hospital visits. We assessed whether biologics could be given safely at home. The multidisciplinary team identified children to be considered for home administration. This was virtually observed using a video link, and home spirometry was also performed. Feedback was obtained from carers and young people. Of 23 patients receiving biologics, 16 (70%) families agreed to homecare administration, 14 administered by parents/patients and 2 by a local nursing team. Video calls for omalizumab were observed on 56 occasions, mepolizumab on 19 occasions over 4 months (April–July). Medication was administered inaccurately on 2/75 occasions without any adverse events. Virtually observed home biologic administration in severe asthmatic children, supported by video calls and home spirometry, is feasible, safe and is positively perceived by children and their families
- pharmacology
- nursing care
- COVID-19
Data availability statement
Data are available on reasonable request. All data relevant to the study are included in the article or uploaded as supplemental information. This is a service delivery evaluation and as a result there are no study protocols or statistical analysis plans.The data does not include any participant details and relevant data have been included in this article. Further clarification may be sought from the corresponding author.
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