The competence of community pharmacists in Lagos, Nigeria, on correct inhaler techniques

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Community pharmacists are in an excellent position to train asthma patients on inhaler techniques. Their competence in the use of these devices contributes to the effectiveness of their training. We aimed to evaluate the knowledge and competence in the use of various inhaler devices among community pharmacists in Lagos, Nigeria. Subjects and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study using standard checklists and dummy devices to evaluate the competence of pharmacists on the use of the metered-dose inhaler (MDI), Diskus, Turbuhaler, and the MDI with spacer. Results: There were 42 participants, 66.7% male and median age of 40.5 (interquartile range: 34.6–50.0) years. All were familiar with the MDI, 60%, 7%, and 5% were familiar with the Diskus, Turbuhaler, and the spacer, respectively. The mean checklist scores on the MDI and Diskus were 5.3 ± 3.0 and 2.3 ± 3.3 (maximum 11), respectively. One participant performed all the steps correctly on either device. Only one participant scored a point on the Turbuhaler, and the mean score for the spacer was 0.8 ± 2.9 (maximum 13). No participant performed all the steps correctly on either the Turbuhaler or the spacer. Previous training on inhaler technique was the only independent determinant of better performance on the MDI (odds ratio 0.44; 95% confidence interval 0.97–4.74). Conclusion: The competence of community pharmacists in Lagos, Nigeria, on inhaler techniques is poor. Their awareness of the Diskus, Turbuhaler, and spacer devices is also very low. Educational interventions are needed to improve competence in correct use of inhalers among pharmacists to enable them effectively play their role in asthma care.