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Rome Memorial Hospital partners with schools to provide asthma management classes for children

Elizabeth Milewski, RRT

Registered Respiratory Therapist

Rome Memorial Hospital

ROME –Rome elementary schools have partnered with Rome Memorial Hospital to help children take control of their asthma.

“Asthma is the most common chronic childhood disorder,” said Eileen G. Luley, MS, RRT, Rome Memorial Hospital’s director of cardiopulmonary services. “That is why Rome Memorial Hospital is bringing the American Lung Association’s “Open Airways” program to local schools.”

The four-week program will be taught by Elizabeth Milewski, RRT, registered respiratory therapist at Rome Memorial Hospital. Bellamy, Clough and Denti elementary schools will host the asthma management class for students in grades three and four under the direction of the school nurses.

“Asthma, a chronic inflammation of the airways, is triggered by various stimuli ranging from allergies and viral infections to irritating gases and particles in the air,” said Milewski. “Asthma causes breathing problems from mild to serious. This program will teach children how to manage their own symptoms,” she explained.

Through group discussion, stories, games and role play, Milewski will teach children that they can take control of their asthma. Topics will include basic information about asthma, recognizing and managing asthma symptoms, using medication, avoiding asthma triggers, getting enough exercise and doing well at school.

“By learning to manage their asthma, children also learn to lead healthy, active lives,” added Milewski. “The program works by teaching children that it is okay to have asthma and they can take control.”

It is estimated that over six million children under the age of 18 are affected, according to the American Lung Association. In an effort to reach as many children as possible, Rome Memorial Hospital opened up the free program to the community last March and will continue to educate children with asthma by bringing the program to different schools each year.

Parents may contact their child’s school nurse for more information or to request their child be included in the “Open Airways” classes.