Evaluation of physicians’ knowledge regarding techniques of usage of inhalation devices

Abstract

Objectives: to evaluate the knowledge and skills of physicians who can deal with asthma and COPD patients, regarding the techniques of usage of difference inhalation devices. Methods:This study cross sectional observation study was conducted upon 250 practicing physicians frequently prescribing different inhalation devices at Cairo during the period between January 2016 and July 2016. Results: 250 doctors responded to the questionnaire were subdivided into 5 groups; (50 physicians each), based upon their medical speciality (pulmonologists, internists, allergiologists, general practitioner, & pediatricians). The most common inhalers that prescribed by doctors was Diskus 95.6%, followed by MDI 83.20%, Turbuhaler 50.80%, MDI + spacer 50% and both Aerolizer and handihaler 24.40%. Regarding general questions, percentage of positive answers among doctors were 100% in the questions about how to use the inhalation devices and teaching patients how to use the inhalation devices; 99.6% in importance of inhaler technique; 94.8% in thinking about good results of inhaled medication; 64% in patient observation during using inhalation devices and 30.8% in patients evaluation every medical visit. Conclusion: There is a need for establishing regular educational programs for both patients and physicians regarding the proper usage of inhaler devices. Observation and re-evaluation of patients by their physicians while using their inhalation devices are directly correlated with the degree of success of usage of such devices.