An evaluation of metered-dose inhaler administration technique in patients of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the technique of use of metered dose inhaler (MDI) in patients of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients at a tertiary health care hospital. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in the patients of bronchial asthma and COPD who were prescribed MDI. The method to use MDI was assessed by using checklist made by WHO Guide to Good Prescribing. Results: A total of 193 patients (128 COPD, 65 asthma) were included. Majority of patients (95%) were educated by the treating physician for the use of inhalational technique of MDI. Majority of patients (98.4%) followed the step to place the lips tightly around the mouthpiece. While the least followed steps were coughing up as much sputum as possible (14.5%), breathing out through nose (15%) and rinsing the mouth after use (22.8%). Conclusion: Few steps of MDI use were missed in majority of the patients. This can be improved by demonstration and by providing awareness by the health care worker.