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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
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.
Description
Keywords
Asthma knowledge Determinants Inhalers Inhaler technique Self-perception