Inhaler training and asthma knowledge are associated with a higher proportion of patients with correct inhaler technique in young but not in elderly asthmatic patients

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2020

Authors

Ferreira, EF (Author) Other; Pascoal, A (Author) Other; Silva, P (Author) Other; Lourenco, O (Author) Other; Valente, S (Author) Other; Valente, MJ (Author) Other; Loureiro, M (Author) Other; Gama, JMR (Author) Other; Fonseca, J (Author) FMUP; Taborda Barata, L (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Journal of Asthma

Vol. 57

Pages: 556-566

ISSN: 0277-0903

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 10 Citations

Scopus - 10 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Q-B22

DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2019.1582063

Abstract (EN): Objective: Incorrect inhaler usage is frequent, particularly in elderly asthmatic patients. This study aimed at comparing inhaler technique errors and their determinants, as well inhaler technique self-perception versus real performance, between elderly and non-elderly asthmatics. Methods: Cross-sectional assessment of 92 elderly and 100 non-elderly asthmatics followed at specialty clinics. A standardized questionnaire was applied and inhaler technique demonstration was requested. Errors were assessed using checklists based on manufacturers' instructions and inhaler technique was graded as correct, acceptable or incorrect. Chi-Square Test and Fischer's Exact Test were used for comparative analysis of nominal variables. A p value equal to or less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Inhaler technique was correct in a minority of elderly and young patients, without significant differences between study groups. Only 11.1% of the elderly who classified their inhaler as easy and 12.7% who stated their technique was correct had no errors. Previous regular inhaler training was associated with better actual performance in young but not in elderly patients. Conclusion: Our study showed that in spite of regular follow up at specialized outpatient clinics, inhaler devices are associated with a high frequency of errors in elderly and non-elderly asthmatics. In addition, most patients tend to overestimate their technique as correct. Finally, previous, frequent training was associated with a significantly higher percentage of patients showing correct or acceptable technique but only in non-elderly asthmatics, which suggests that elderly asthmatics may need specifically tailored inhaler education programs.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 11