Gender differences in metered-dose inhaler-spacer device technique.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether gender affects the correct use of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI)-spacer device.


METHODS
Prospective, observational study.


METHODS
University classrooms.


METHODS
Eighty-three students in their third year of a Doctor of Pharmacy program.


METHODS
Students were given the device and received 20 minutes of education on its use. They then were asked to perform the technique. Assessment and retraining were done, as necessary, by clinicians who were experienced with the device. Students returned 1 week later to perform the technique again.


RESULTS
The performance of men versus women was analyzed with chi 2 tests and the Student's t test. Power analysis indicated that 30 students were needed in each group.


CONCLUSIONS
There were no significant differences between men and women in proper MDI-spacer technique.
Chafin
C C
CC
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee, Memphis 38163, USA.
Tolley
E A
EA
George
C M
CM
Demirkan
K
K
Kuhl
D A
DA
Pugazhenthi
M
M
Self
T H
TH
D000328:Adult; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D011446:Prospective Studies; D017678:Sex Distribution