ASSESSMENT OF METERED DOSE INHALER TECHNIQUE IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE LUNG DISEASE

Background Appropriate selection and correct use of inhalation devices is an integral component in the management of asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD). It is well known that no one device suits all patients. Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) and Soft Mist Inhalers (SMIs) are widely used even if benefits to patients are strictly related to their usability. Our aim of the study was to assess the frequency of patients with chronic obstructive lung diseases having improper metered dose inhaler technique. Methodology It was a cross-sectional study done at outpatient Department of Medical Department, Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital, Islamabad over a period of 3.All Patients with COLD presenting in OPD were assessed as having either a correct (performed ALL 6 steps correctly) or incorrect (not performed all steps correctly) inhaler technique, data being recorded on proforma. RESULTS A total of 250 patients were included in the study ranged between 14-70 years with mean age of patients 46.5±15.7 years. Total of 6 steps of inhalation technique was observed. Mean steps was 3.8±1.4. Incorrect inhaler technique (≤5 steps) was adopted by 220 patients (88%) and correct technique (6 steps) adopted by only 30 patients (12%). Stratification for age, gender, duration of COLD, education, marital status, occupation and BMI was also carried out. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that incorrect technique during inhalation is common among our patients with COLD hence it emphasizes an essential role of health professionals in regular evaluation of their patients and caregivers to ensure correct application of inhalation devices. KEY WORDS Metered dose inhalers (MDI), Chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD), Correct technique