The effect of patient education on correct use of metered dose inhalers in patients with asthma

Kim, Sang Guk; Jang, An Soo; Kim, Yun Kyung; Lee, Soong; Seo, Jeong Pyeong; Yang, Seung Won; Choi, Soo In; Park, Sang Hoo; Lee, Kyung Rok; Park, Jae Hong

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Medications for asthma can be administered either by inhaled or systemic routes. The major advantages of delivering drugs directly into the lungs via inhalation are that higher concentrations can be delivered more effectively to the airways and that systemic side effects are avoided or minimized. Inhaled medications, or aerosols, are available in a variety of devices that differ in required technique and quantity of drugs delivered to the lung.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of patient education on correct use of metered dose inhaler in patients with asthma.
METHODS
Twenty patients with asthma were instructed three times on proper inhaler usage by a physician at two-week intervals. Practical performance and theoretical knowledge were assessed (ten-item assessment). Scoring was done by one physician using a score of 1-3 for each item.
RESULTS
The practical performance and theoretical knowledge scores were higher in patients after being instructed three times compared with those who were instructed once (26.2+/-2.2 vs 18.1+/-3.6, p< 0.01). The scores were higher in patients with higher education level com- pared with those with lower education level after three lessons (27.3+/-1.94 vs 24.3+/-1.80, p< 0.05). The most common errors included inadequate actuation time and breath holding, and insufficient activations.
CONCLUSION
These findings suggest that patients with asthma be instructed in inhaler use and that their technique be checked regularly and repeatedly depending on education level.