title: Educational intervention for correct pressurised metered dose inhaler technique in Trinidadian patients with asthma.
abstract: Correct pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDI) usage is reportedly sub-optimal in patients and data for Caribbean populations is not available. We studied proficiency of inhaler use in Trinidadian patients, and determined sub-groups to be targeted for educational interventions. Inhaler use by 331 consecutive stable patients with airway disease (over 7 years) was observed and marked on a standard checklist. From direct observation only 41% of patients correctly inhaled, though 92% were confident of accurate technique. Few elderly patients (6%) received appropriate instructions on inhaler technique and only 35% (n = 23/66) understood the rationale for two different inhaler therapies (P < 0.001). More children (33%) and elderly patients (21%) reported escaping drug with use. Multiple regression analysis indicated the independent predictors of correct pMDI were age (P < 0.01) and correct understanding of different inhalers. Intensive patient education in Trinidadian children and elderly patients with airway disorders can enable active participation in disease management and maximal benefit from medication.
authors.affiliation: Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, EWMSC, Champs Fleur, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Pinto Pereira
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Clement
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Simeon
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012646:Self Administration / Q000379:methods*; D014300:Trinidad and Tobago
chemical_list: D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents