User-Friendliness Evaluation of Handling pMDI with Various Add-on Devices in Asthmatic Patients

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the use of pMDI alone and pMDI with different spacers in asthmatic patients and to identify any associations between errors in handling the device for the first time and the sessions needed to reach the correct handling method, considering patient demographics and clinical characteristics. A total of 150 Asthmatic patients were crossed over to handle pMDI alone and with add-on inhalable devices (Aerochamber plus, Tips Haler, Able, Dispozable and Aer-8) randomly, without receiving verbal or demonstrative instruction (baseline assessment). The assessment of the inhaler technique was performed using checklists that had been set beforehand. Subsequently, the proper utilization of the inhaler was exhibited, and the patient's inhaler usage was reassessed. The demonstration was repeated until an optimal technique was attained. The number of counselling attempts required to achieve successful management, together with patient demographics and clinical factors, were documented. The mean percentage of total errors at baseline shows that pMDI alone is significantly higher than pMDI attached to add-on devices (53.90 ± 9.71, 32.54 ± 13.93, 24.53 ± 14.93, 21.6 ± 14.48, 25.14 ± 10.99, 27.47 ± 10.28) for pMDI alone, Aerochamber plus, Tips Haler, Able, Dispozable and Aer-8 respectively at p Graphical Abstract

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