Assessment of Proper Medication Inhaler Technique in Adult Patients

Background: Many medications used to manage pulmonary disease are delivered via unique inhalation devices. Proper technique in using these devices is required for effective medication delivery. Objective: To assess the degree of proper inhaler technique among adult patients. Methods: Patients using inhalers were identified and then interviewed by pharmacy personnel regarding inhaler use. Checklists were used to document the adherence to manufacturers' directions for each respective inhaler, and data were then tabulated and assessed for the number and types of inhalers used, incorrectly performed steps in using the inhalers, as well as demographic information of patients. Results: Of the 129 patients that were interviewed, a total of 212 inhalers were used. Twenty-five percent of inhalers (/212) were used incorrectly, with the 3 most common errors being improper priming or lack of test sprays, lack of proper exhalation prior to inhaling the medication, and absence or improper cleaning of inhalers. Furthermore, less than 4% of patients reported being instructed by a pharmacist on proper inhaler use. Conclusion: Inhaler technique among adult patients is substandard and is a key area for pharmacists to become more proactive in educating patients.