Clinical Audit to Assess Compliance with ARIA Guidelines in the Management of Allergic Rhinitis

Abstract Allergic rhinitis is a common inflammatory condition that can impair quality of life and productivity when poorly managed. The Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for its diagnosis and treatment, yet adherence in clinical practice remains inconsistent. This article aims to assess compliance with the ARIA guidelines in the diagnosis, treatment, and documentation of allergic rhinitis. The present audit was conducted in the Department of ENT, Chaudhary Muhammad Akram Teaching and Research Hospital, Azra Naheed Medical College, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan. A nonprobability consecutive sampling technique was used to include all available records with a documented diagnosis of allergic rhinitis from the month of August 2025. Records lacking a confirmed diagnosis were excluded. In total, 108 records were analyzed according to a standardized checklist, based on the ARIA guideline recommendations. All information was recorded for analysis using SPSS version 23. History of asthma or atopy was documented in 26 (24.1%) while family history in 42 (38.9%). Clinical history was documented in 106 (98.1%) and physical examination in 100 (92.6%). Regarding classification, severity was not documented in 24 (22.2%), whereas 20 (18.5%) had no documentation on duration. In 98 (90.7%), treatment aligned with ARIA severity guidelines. Allergen avoidance education was provided to 90 (83.3%) and nonpharmacological interventions in 30 (27.8%). Follow-up plan was documented in 72 (66.7%). Validated scoring tools were used in 32 (29.6%) for monitoring. The audit revealed partial compliance with the ARIA guidelines. While core diagnostic steps were well-documented, gaps remained in documenting atopic history, using nonpharmacological measures, and applying standardized outcome tools. Improved documentation and greater adherence to guideline-based interventions are needed to optimize allergic rhinitis care.