Patient Preference and Adherence (Aug 2023)
Characteristics of Inhaler Technique in COPD Patients in a Specialized Center in Armenia, Colombia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Jorge A Montes Cardona,1 Diego A Hincapié Erira,1 Humberto Alejandro Nati-Castillo,1 Jaime Sánchez-Vallejo,2 Juan S Izquierdo-Condoy3 1Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad del Quindío, Armenia, Colombia; 2Pneumology Service, IPS Neumovida, Armenia, Colombia; 3One Health Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, EcuadorCorrespondence: Juan S Izquierdo-Condoy, OneHealth Global Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador Calle de los Colimes y Avenida De los Granados, Quito, 170137, Tel +593992561230, Email [email protected]: The aim of this research was to evaluate the technique of using inhaled drugs in patients with a confirmed history of COPD and describe errors in inhaler technique.Patients and Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in patients with a history of COPD using inhalation therapy, attending pulmonology consultation between August 2020 and April 2021 in Armenia, Colombia. A non-probabilistic sample of 80 adult participants was calculated, and the inhalation technique was evaluated (depending on the device used) using a scale validated for Colombia. Descriptive analysis of the qualitative variables was performed using frequencies and percentages. The Chi-Square test and Fisher’s exact test (in corresponding cases) were used to look for association relationships between categorical variables.Results: A total of 80 participants were evaluated, of which 66.3% (n = 53) were male, and 32.5% were older than 80 years. Clinically, 30.0% (n = 24) were classified as Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale (mMRC) grade 3, and 51.2% (n = 41) had at least one exacerbation per year. The main comorbidity was hypertension (40.3%). Pressurized metered-dose inhalers with spacer were the most used device at 22.7% (n = 39). Incorrect technique (at least one error in the steps of the inhalation technique used) was found in 48.7%. The most frequent error among all the techniques was the failure to perform pre-inspiratory exhalation. No significant differences were observed between the development of the technique and the characteristics of the participants.Conclusion: Nearly half of the patients who use inhalation devices make errors in the technique. Patient education and training of healthcare personnel represent a fundamental pillar in mitigating the incorrect use of these devices.Keywords: pulmonary disease, chronic obstructive, administration, inhalation, medication errors
