Physician-targeted program on inhaled therapy for childhood asthma

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Medical Education
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Inhaled medications are crucial for asthma management.
• Physician knowledge and skills in using metered-dose inhalers (MDI) and spacer devices are often deficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop, implement, and evaluate an educational program for physicians on inhaled therapy.
• To improve pediatric residents' proficiency in using MDI and associated devices.

Main Methods:

• A 45-minute educational program was delivered to pediatric residents.
• The program included theoretical review, practical demonstrations, and hands-on device practice (MDI, InspirEase, AeroChamber).
• A randomized-controlled design was used for evaluation, assessing practical skills and theoretical knowledge.

Main Results:

• The experimental group showed significant improvements in correct steps for MDI (3.7 to 6.3/7), InspirEase (1.9 to 5.9/7), and AeroChamber (0.3 to 4.5/6).
• Theoretical knowledge scores increased from 13/25 to 18/25 in the experimental group.
• The control group showed no significant changes, highlighting the program's effectiveness (p < 0.01 for all parameters).

Conclusions:

• A concise educational program can substantially enhance pediatric residents' skills in inhalational therapy.
• Improving physician competency in inhaled medication delivery is achievable through targeted educational interventions.