Assessment of inhalation technique among patients of chronic respiratory disorders in Civil Hospital Karachi: A cross sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the inhaler technique of patients and the awareness acquired during pulmonary teachings given in the beginning of the treatment.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Civil Hospital, Karachi, from December 2013 to July 2014, and comprised patients diagnosed with obstructive broncho-pulmonary diseases and who were using inhaler therapy. A questionnaire was designed to assess the technique by an inhaler technique checklist, which was pilot-tested and was filled after obtaining verbal consent. SPSS 19 was used for data analysis.

RESULTS: Of the 202 participants, 110(54.45%) were women and 92(45.54%) were men. Moreover, 168(83.2%) used metered-dose inhaler while 34(16.8%) used dry-powder inhaler. Besides, 134(79.8%) patients showed incorrect technique while using metered-dose inhaler while 22(61.1%) used dry-powder inhaler improperly.

CONCLUSIONS: In spite of the guidelines given, improper inhalation technique persisted in population leading to uncontrolled asthma and poor treatment compliance.