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Inhaler Use Technique in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients: Errors, Practices and Barriers
Tareen Sanaullah1, Shereen Khan2, Aria Masoom3
1Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care, FJ Chest Hospital, Bolan University of Medical and Health Sciences, Quetta, PAK.
Cureus
|October 26, 2020
Summary
In Pakistan, a study found that only 6.3% of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients use their inhalers correctly. Most patients lack proper training, highlighting a critical gap in COPD management and medication efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Patient Adherence
Background:
- Inhaled medications are crucial for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Proper inhaler technique is vital for maximizing medication efficacy and minimizing side effects.
- Inhaler technique quality has not been previously assessed in Pakistan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine factors influencing COPD patient willingness, practices, and preferences in using inhalers.
- To assess the quality of inhaler technique among COPD patients in Pakistan.
- To evaluate satisfaction, perception, and practice of different inhaler devices.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 765 COPD patients in Pakistan.
- Qualitative questionnaires and objective assessment of inhalation technique steps.
- Evaluation of inhaler device satisfaction, preferences, and practices.
Main Results:
- Only 6.3% of participants demonstrated correct inhaler technique.
- Patients using dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) showed significant errors in technique.
- Most patients received technique demonstrations from pharmacy salespersons (38.4%) rather than doctors (15.8%).
- Poor adherence was linked to the belief that inhalers might not work (54.2%), and 75.2% were unaware of side effects.
Conclusions:
- Poor inhaler technique is highly prevalent in Pakistani COPD patients, irrespective of device type.
- A significant lack of proper training on inhaler use and involvement in device selection was observed.
- Addressing these gaps is essential for improving COPD management and patient outcomes.
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