Asthma Action Plan in Children

An asthma action plan for children is a plan that is developed by the child's doctor to help caregivers manage asthma symptoms and prevent asthma attacks. The action plan includes written instructions for what to do when asthma symptoms change in severity.

Basic Information

• The asthma action plan should include the child's name, the name and dose of medications currently being taken and asthma triggers. In addition, the plan should list the child's doctor's name and phone number as well as emergency numbers.

Peak Flow Meter Readings

• A baseline reading can be taken when the child is symptom free, using the average of three blows into the meter. The doctor will then make recommendation on action taken when readings fall below the baseline.

Green Zone

• The green zone is where the child should be everyday, with no asthma symptoms such as coughing or wheezing. Peak flow readings are 80 to 100 percent of the baseline reading.

Yellow Zone

• The yellow zone is when the child has asthma symptoms such as mild shortness of breath. In this zone, peak flow meter readings are 50 to 80 percent of the baseline, and medication will be recommended

Red Zone

• When a child is in the red zone, peak flow meter readings fall below 50 percent of the baseline, and urgent care is needed. Symptoms in this zone include severe shortness of breath and rapid breathing.