The adequacy of inhaler technique in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma attending a tertiary care hospital in Navi Mumbai

Abstract

Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are major concerns to health-care system. Improper inhaler device used (metered dose inhaler/dry powder inhaler) is one of the major causes associated with inadequate control of the disease. This study was performed to evaluate the inhaler technique among patients and to investigate factors associated with improper use and whether age or gender was associated with poor inhaler technique. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study of all patients who visited the chest outpatient department with asthma and COPD over a 6-month-period in a tertiary care hospital in Navi Mumbai. Information was collected about demographic data and inhaler technique was assessed using a standard checklist. Results: There were 107 patients, 71 with asthma and 36 with COPD. Inhaler techniques of 95% of patients were found to be inadequate in some form or the other as per checklist. Of all the patients interviewed, only about 60% of patients recalled that demonstration was done by doctors or other health-care professionals. Twelve percent were instructed by pharmacists and remaining followed their friend′s or relative′s suggestions along with insert literature. Conclusions: The inhaler technique is inadequate among most patients. On every visit, patient′s inhaler technique should be observed and adequate suggestions should be given to correct any deficiency.

Keywords

• Adherence
• asthma
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• dry powder inhaler
• inhaler technique
• metered dose inhaler