A randomized trial of pocket cards to increase implementation of the 2020 NHLBI asthma guidelines

In 2020, the NHLBI released the Focused Asthma Management Updates. However, awareness, knowledge, and implementation of these guidelines have been inadequate. Here, we evaluate the ability of electronic and print versions of a pocket card containing key recommendations from the NHLBI 2020 Asthma Guideline Update to increase implementation among primary care providers (PCPs). In a prospective, randomized trial, 138 PCPs were given an electronic or print version of a pocket card with information on asthma treatment and management. A knowledge-based survey was provided at baseline, and after 1 month of use of the pocket card, the survey was repeated. Implementation questions at the 1-month follow-up included utilization of the pocket cards, settings in which they were used, and perceived usefulness. 77 participants (55.8%) completed both baseline and follow-up surveys. At baseline, the mean percent-correct score for the electronic pocket card group was 46.9% and the print-out pocket card group was 42.2%. After the intervention, the scores for both groups improved to 56.7% and 57.3% respectively (p Both electronic and printed pocket cards can increase medical knowledge around the Focused Asthma Updates and may be considered as part of an implementation strategy.