Teaching inhaler use in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.
OBJECTIVE
To review barriers to the successful use of inhalers in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and the role of the nurse practitioner (NP) in facilitating optimum inhaler use.


METHODS
Review of the national and international scientific literature.


CONCLUSIONS
Pharmacologic treatment of COPD patients comprises mainly inhaled medications. Incorrect use of inhalers is very common in these individuals. Some of the consequences of poor inhaler technique include reduced therapeutic dosing, medication adherence, and disease stability, which can lead to increased morbidity, decreased quality of life, and a high burden on the healthcare system. Knowledgeable evaluation and frequent reassessment of inhaler use coupled with education of patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals can significantly improve the benefits COPD patients derive from inhaled therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Patient education is vital for correct use of inhalers and to ensure the effectiveness of inhaled medications. The NP has a critical role in assessing potential barriers to successful learning by the patient and improving inhaler technique and medication management. The NP can also facilitate success with inhaled medications by providing up-to-date inhaler education for other healthcare team members, who may then act as patient educators.
College of Nursing, University of Colorado Denver, Education 2 North, 13120 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA. Suzanne.Lareau@ucdenver.edu
Suzanne C
SC
Lareau
Richard
R
Hodder
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000451:nursing; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D055118:Medication Adherence; D036501:Metered Dose Inhalers; D008875:Middle Aged; D009048:Motor Skills; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D009722:Nurse Practitioners; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing
D005938:Glucocorticoids