Volume: 46 Issue: 2
Year: 2026, Page: 138-145, Doi: https://doi.org/10.51248/v46i2.49
Received: April 30, 2026 Accepted: June 25, 2026 Published: July 2, 2026
Background: Bronchial asthma and COPD are common respiratory diseases characterized by airflow limitation, mucus hypersecretion, and inflammation, often presenting with cough and wheeze. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of patient education on the correct use of five commonly used inhaler devices.
Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted over 6 months in a tertiary care hospital in Kannur. A total of 155 patients with asthma or COPD were assessed for their inhaler technique. Following initial evaluation, patients received education through demonstration using placebo inhalers and informational leaflets. Pre- and post-education scores were recorded using checklists adapted from the Dutch Asthma Foundation and manufacturers. The study included five inhaler devices commonly used in clinical practice: Revolizer, Rotahaler, Lupihaler, pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI), and pMDI with spacer. Statistical significance was analyzed using the related-samples McNemar test, with p < 0.05 considered significant.
Results: Among participants, 37% used revolizers, 29% pMDIs, 15% rotahalers, 12% pMDIs with spacers, and 7% lupihalers. Only 52 patients (33.5%) performed all inhaler steps correctly, while 103 (66.5%) made at least one error. The most commonly prescribed medication was salmeterol with fluticasone propionate (23.2%). Errors in inhaler technique were prevalent across all device types.
Conclusion: Post-education assessment showed significant improvement in inhaler technique. The study highlights that patient education, including training and practical demonstration, plays a crucial role in improving inhaler use, leading to better disease control and enhanced quality of life.
Keywords: Bronchial Asthma; COPD; Inhaler Technique; Patient Education; Quality of Life
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