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| As defined by the National Asthma Educator
Certification Board (NAECB) |
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"An asthma educator is an expert in teaching,
educating, and counseling individuals with asthma and their families in the knowledge and skills necessary to minimize
the impact of asthma on their quality of life. The educator possesses comprehensive, current knowledge of asthma
pathophysiology and management including developmental theories, cultural dimensions, the impact of chronic illness,
and principles of teaching-learning. The educator is knowledgeable about objective and subjective evaluations used to
diagnose asthma and assess its control. The educator capably instructs individuals with asthma on the optimal use of
medications and delivery devices particularly explaining technical concepts to individuals in language each can
understand. The educator conducts thorough assessments of individuals and families to identify strengths and resources
as well as negative psychological factors, the social and economic impact of asthma, educational needs, and barriers to
optimal healthcare and self-management. The educator works with an individual with asthma, his/her family, and other
healthcare professionals to develop, implement, monitor, and revise an asthma action plan customized to the individual's
needs, environment, disease severity, and lifestyle to optimize the individual's self-management skills. The educator
monitors asthma education program outcomes and recommends modifications to improve quality and effectiveness. The
educator serves as a resource to the community by providing information about asthma as well as healthcare and community
resources. A primary job responsibility of the certified asthma educator is the provision of asthma coordination and
counseling services." |
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