Assessment of Errors during Inhaler Usage among Asthma and COPD Patients.

Corresponding Author:
Dr. Binuraj C.,
Associate Professor,
Department of Pulmonary Medicine,
KMCT Medical College,
Calicut, Kerala, India.
E-mail: drbinuraj2005@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND

The cornerstone therapy for respiratory diseases is drugs for inhalation. Effectiveness of inhalers can be influenced by factors such as gender, age, educational status, and type of inhaler used and correct inhalation technique. The aim of this study is to provide information about common errors in technique that occur during inhalation.

METHODS

Male and female patients who met the inclusion criteria (age 18 - 80) years, using inhalers particularly MDI and DPI were included in the study. The study patients were asked to perform inhalation technique and the errors in technique that occur during inhalation were recorded. The sample size was 150 and duration of study was 6 months.

RESULTS

The common errors during the use of inhalers included, no exhalation before inhalation, no breath hold, and absence of proper washing of mouth after inhalation. Among the 86 MDI users, no exhalation before inhalation (n=50), no breath hold (n=35) and absence of proper washing of mouth after inhalation (n=21). For the 64 patients using DPI, no exhalation before inhalation (n=68), no breath hold (n=51) and absence of proper washing of mouth after inhalation (n=35).

CONCLUSIONS

For effective management of respiratory disease like asthma and COPD proper use of inhalers along with appropriate counseling is important.

KEY WORDS

Asthma, COPD, Dry Powder Inhaler, Metered Dose Inhaler