An Integrated Medical and Nursing Management Model for Children with Allergic Rhinitis

We aimed to explore the efficacy of an integrated medical and nursing management model in the treatment of children with allergic rhinitis (AR). We employed a before-after study design in this non-randomized concurrent control trial. In total, 73 patients completed the entire study including follow-up. Seventy-three children with AR, previously treated with intranasal corticosteroids (INCSs) without symptom improvement, were enrolled. An allergy nurse specialist provided step-by-step operation of INCSs and AR education to children and parents. Treatment compliance, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and Pediatric Rhino-conjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PRQLQ) results were assessed at baseline and 4 weeks post-intervention. Medication compliance improved from 46.6% to 96.6% at 4 weeks (P < 0.01). The total VAS of nasal symptoms scores decreased significantly [6 (3.5, 10) vs. 22 (14, 27), P < 0.01]. The total VAS of ocular symptoms scores decreased significantly [1 (0, 3.5) vs. 5 (1, 9), P < 0.01]. PRQLQ scores showed significant improvements in nasal symptoms [6 (4, 8) vs. 16 (9, 20), P < 0.01], ocular symptoms [0 (0, 2) vs. 1 (0, 6), P < 0. 01], practical problems [5 (1.5, 8) vs. 16 (8, 22), P < 0.01], other symptoms [6 (2, 8) vs. 14 (7, 22), P < 0.01], and emotional symptoms [2 (0, 4) vs. 8 (2, 12), P < 0.01]. The nurse specialist's involvement in managing children with AR enhanced treatment compliance, reduced symptoms, and improved quality of life. This intervention not only benefited the children, but also enhanced nurses' roles in disease management and fostering professional value. We recommend its clinical application.