Hands-on Education to Increase Comfort and Knowledge Utilizing In-Check^TM Inhaler Training Device in Medical Trainees

IntroductionCorrect inhaler technique is of utmost importance in the optimal delivery of therapeutics utilized for respiratory illnesses. Previous research suggests that the ability of both patients and providers to correctly use these inhalers is sub-optimal and is associated with poorer patient outcomes. Further education about inhaler types and technique as part of residency education could serve to correct these trends.MethodsFamily medicine residents were taught correct inhaler technique with an inhaler training device (In-Check^TM DIAL G16) using a didactic lecture with hands-on teaching exercise utilizing pharmacy interprofessional teaching. We assessed pre- and post-intervention comfort and knowledge of correct inhaler technique.ResultsTwenty of twenty-seven eligible family medicine residents attended an interdisciplinary workshop with clinical pharmacists with the purpose of improving inhaler technique comfort level and knowledge. A pre- and post-knowledge test and comfort questionnaire were provided to those participating. Comfort levels with prescribing different inhaler types increased after the intervention and knowledge of different inhalers improved.ConclusionUse of an inhaler training device coupled with an interdisciplinary lecture format improved provider knowledge of correct inhaler technique and comfort with prescribing inhalers.