ASSESSMENT OF METERED DOSE INHALER TECHNIQUE IN COPD PATIENTS IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

ABSTRACT
Objective: To determine the frequency of incorrect Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) technique and common factors leading
to it among patients with chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD).
Materials and methods: This study was conducted in the in the Department of Medicine, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar
from 1st July 2012 to 30th June 2013. Through a Descriptive Cross Sectional Study Design, a total of 201 patients
of COPD fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected in a consecutive manner and were observed for the method of
MDI Technique keeping British thoracic society devised MDI technique as standard.
RESULTS: Male patients (72.1%) outnumbered female (27.9%) patients. Mean age of the group 47.37 with 13.2 SD. Of
all patients, incorrect MDI technique was observed in only 70.1% of patients with actuating the device and inhaling slowly
being the most commonly performed incorrectly in 60% of patients. The common factors leading to incorrect technique
were 85.8% of patients not received MDI instruction properly and 56% had education status less than primary schooling.
CONCLUSION: Metered dose inhaler technique is incorrect in majority of COPD patients. Lack of prior technique
education and educational status of patient are leading factors for substandard technique.
KEY WORDS: COLD, Metered Dose Inhaler, Technique