Skill development in using a metered doseinhaler (mdi) with and without spacer by patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Respiratory Diseases are major causes of morbidity and mortality throughout the world and their prevalence is increasing. Poor inhaler technique, poor patient understanding of disease, non-compliance and incorrect use of inhaler devices is a common problem both in asthma and COPD.

To develop the skill of using a Metered dose inhaler(MDI) with and without Spacer among Asthma and COPD patients.

An operational study was carried out at Chest Clinic, New OPD, PGIMER, Chandigarh. Using Purposive, convenient sampling technique 50 patients were selected. Questionnaire related to knowledge and cleanliness and Attitude of the patient related to use of MDI with and without spacer were used to collect data. Protocol in the form of Leaflet were prepared and used for demonstrations. Observation checklist was used for re-demonstration of procedure of using MDI with spacer. Information was obtained regarding socio-demographic profile, medical history of the disease. Written consent was sought from each patient/caregivers.

The mean difference in scores attained by the subjects using MDI without Spacer in Baseline visit was 4.2 with variability of (±1.8 S.D) and at follow-up visit after one week was 8.5 with variability of (±0.7 S.D). The teaching-cum live demonstration played a very significant role in enhancing skill of using MDI without spacer of the subjects (p <0.001***).