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Inhalation devices for the treatment of asthma--how much do paediatricians know about their correct use?

H Kurz1, J Riedler

  • 1Kinderinterne Abteilung, Sozialmedizinisches Zentrum Ost, Wien, Austria.

Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift
|July 27, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Paediatricians demonstrate acceptable knowledge of inhalation devices for childhood asthma treatment. However, practical skills require improvement, highlighting a need for enhanced training in using devices like Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) and nebulisers.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Respiratory Medicine
  • Medical Education

Background:

  • Childhood asthma requires effective inhalation therapy.
  • Proper use of inhalation devices is crucial for treatment success.
  • Assessing healthcare provider knowledge is essential for optimizing patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the practical and theoretical knowledge of paediatricians regarding inhalation devices for pediatric asthma.
  • To identify specific deficits in device handling and understanding among paediatricians.
  • To determine the need for improved training in inhalation device use for childhood asthma.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 41 paediatricians from Austria and Switzerland.
  • Assessment of knowledge on four inhalation devices: Diskhaler, Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) with Aerochamber, Aerochamber cleaning, and Pari Junior jet nebuliser.
  • Evaluation of both practical performance and theoretical understanding using a 1-5 scoring system.

Main Results:

  • Overall performance was acceptable, with a median score of 13 out of a possible 20.
  • Some paediatricians exhibited deficits in the practical application of specific inhalation devices.
  • Knowledge gaps were identified in the correct usage and maintenance of certain devices.

Conclusions:

  • While paediatricians possess a baseline understanding of inhalation devices, practical skills need enhancement.
  • Targeted training programs focusing on the correct use of various inhalation devices are recommended.
  • Improving paediatrician proficiency in inhalation therapy can lead to better outcomes for children with asthma.

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