Computer-assisted instructions for patients with bronchial asthma

We produced computer-assisted instruction (CAI) software for bronchial asth ma patients (asthma educational system with computer-assisted instruction; ASTCAI) to assist in self-management and avoid asthmatic attacks and death. ASTCAI is a question-and-answer program operating in a multimedia environm ent, and was evaluated from questionnaires which 33 patients were asked. Th irty-two patients could perform ASTCAI without any assistance. The response s of 31 patients (94%) indicated that they had no difficulty with manipulat ion, and 29 patients (88%) stated that the program was beneficial to contro l of their asthma. Elderly patients (over 65) required more time than young er adults. Emergency visits or admissions of at least 1 year after the firs t CAI trial decreased in eight out of 26 patients, while only mio patients deteriorated compared to the previous year. Our results show that CAI is fe asible for most patients, and through active self-learning CAI can improve motivation for self-management as well as supplement the physician's instru ctions. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.