A protocol for adapting a clinical practice guideline for the treatment of paediatric asthma for the Egyptian Pediatric Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee

Abstract

Introduction

Paediatric asthma is a prevalent and chronic respiratory condition affecting children worldwide. This protocol outlines the methodology for developing a clinical practice guideline (CPG) for the management of paediatric asthma. The goal of this guideline is to provide evidence-based recommendations for healthcare professionals, improving the quality of care and health outcomes for paediatric patients with asthma.

Methods

We will use the ‘Adapted ADAPTE’ adaption method, a systematic approach to adapt existing guidelines, which consists of three phases (setup, adaptation and finalisation phases), nine modules and 24 steps, with adaptations to the process and tools to suit the Egypt healthcare context and resources.

Questions

Clinical questions were prepared using the patient population, interventions, professionals, outcomes and healthcare context (PIPOH) model. This CPG protocol addresses critical clinical questions at the heart of effective asthma management in children. It focuses on the diagnosis of paediatric asthma, considering age-specific clinical presentations and diagnostic tests, assessment of asthma severity, control medications like inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting β-agonists and others, with an emphasis on appropriate tools and criteria. The CPG also delves into the realm of long-term control treatment, exploring the effectiveness and safety of pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions, while considering individualised needs. Furthermore, it examines strategies for monitoring and adjusting treatment plans over time, ensuring optimal care. These clinical questions form the foundation of the CPG, facilitating evidence-based care delivery and enhancing health outcomes for paediatric asthma patients.