What is an anticipated finding in a child with well-controlled asthma?

A child with well-controlled asthma is expected to have good lung function, which is typically reflected in their FEV1 measurement. The FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second) is a crucial indicator of how well the lungs are functioning. An FEV1 of 85% predicted suggests that the child can exhale a volume of air that is within the normal range when adjusted for their age, height, and gender, indicating that the asthma is under control and that the child is likely experiencing minimal symptoms and not suffering from significant airflow obstruction.

In contrast, the other options reflect issues or inadequacies in asthma management. Using a SABA (Short-Acting Beta-Agonist) three days a week implies that the child is experiencing regular symptoms, which would not align with the concept of well-controlled asthma. An ACT score of 18 indicates poor asthma control, as scores below 20 generally suggest poor management and greater impact on the child’s daily life. Similarly, having symptoms occur about every other day would also indicate a lack of control, as well-controlled asthma typically means symptoms are infrequent, if present at all, during normal daily activities.