The Proper use of Inhalers in a Third Step Hospital and its Effect on Treatment: Original Study

Abstract

Objective: The percentage of asthma patients that use their inhalers with the correct technique ranges between 10 and 60. Inappropriate use of inhaler leads to disuse of drug, diminished disease control and increased drug use. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of proper inhaler therapy on the treatment and control of asthma and the effect of proper inhaler use on hospitalization due to asthma. Method: One hundred and sixty five asthma patients over 18 years of age that applied to either in- or out-patient clinics of a university hospital, that had a diagnosis of asthma according to the criteria of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) and had been attack-free for at least one month were included. Patients were told to use their inhalers and any misuse were noted. Patients were put through the Asthma Control Test (ACT). Their forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) values were also noted. Their hospitalization status for asthma in the last year was assessed and recorded. Results: One hundred patients used their asthma inhalers correctly, while 65 did not. Those that used their inhalers correctly had significantly higher ACT (p=0,0001), FEV1% (p=0,001) and PEF% (p=0,014). Discussion: Patients must be informed and trained for the correct use of their inhaler drugs. Patients seem to be under-informed on this subject and there are serious mistakes of use for all inhaler types. Correct use of inhalers leads to better control of disease, lower rate of asthma-related hospitalization, less drug waste and decreased treatment cost.