Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for asthma. This is a condition that can make it hard to breathe. The doctors created an asthma action plan for you. This is a list of instructions that tell you:
●What medicines to take at home each day, if any
●What symptoms to watch for
●What other medicines to take if your symptoms get worse
●When to call the doctor or get emergency help
Most action plans have 3 categories:
●Green means you are breathing well and your asthma symptoms are under control.
●Yellow means you are having some symptoms and need treatment with a quick-relief medicine.
●Red means the symptoms are severe and you need medical help.
Here is an example of an asthma action plan for adults (form 1).
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment.
●Make sure you understand your action plan and how to use it. If you have any questions, call your doctor or nurse.
Patient education: Asthma action plan for adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Asthma in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Medicines for asthma (The Basics)
Patient education: Exercise-induced asthma (The Basics)
Patient education: Avoiding asthma triggers (The Basics)
Patient education: How to use a peak flow meter (The Basics)
Patient education: Asthma treatment in adolescents and adults (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Inhaler techniques in adults (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Exercise-induced asthma (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Trigger avoidance in asthma (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: How to use a peak flow meter (Beyond the Basics)
