RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 A cross-sectional observational study to assess inhaler technique in Saudi hospitalized patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
JF Saudi Medical Journal
JO Saudi Med J
FD Prince Sultan Military Medical City
SP 570
OP 574
DO 10.15537/smj.2016.5.14369
VO 37
IS 5
A1 Ammari, Maha Al
A1 Sultana, Khizra
A1 Yunus, Faisal
A1 Ghobain, Mohammed Al
A1 Halwan, Shatha M. Al
YR 2016
UL http://smj.org.sa/content/37/5/570.abstract
AB Objectives: To assess the proportion of critical errors committed while demonstrating the inhaler technique in hospitalized patients diagnosed with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 47 asthmatic and COPD patients using inhaler devices. The study took place at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia between September and December 2013. Two pharmacists independently assessed inhaler technique with a validated checklist.Results: Seventy percent of patients made at least one critical error while demonstrating their inhaler technique, and the mean number of critical errors per patient was 1.6. Most patients used metered dose inhaler (MDI), and 73% of MDI users and 92% of dry powder inhaler users committed at least one critical error.Conclusion: Inhaler technique in hospitalized Saudi patients was inadequate. Health care professionals should understand the importance of reassessing and educating patients on a regular basis for inhaler technique, recommend the use of a spacer when needed, and regularly assess and update their own inhaler technique skills.