Correct or incorrect use of inhalers in patients with dyspnea

Abstract

Introduction: One of the medications used by patients with dyspnea and asthma is sprays whose the way of application is very important. If these medications are not used properly, they will not be effective. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correct or incorrect use of sprays by patients. Material and Method: This double-blind observational analytical study was conducted on patients attending clinics in Jahrom from 2009 to 2013 selected by convenience sampling method. After obtaining patient’s consent, a researcher-made questionnaire was completed by the patients and then they were asked to use spray in the presence of another researcher and then to complete the second questionnaire on how the patient should use the spray. Finally, the data were analyzed. Results: Of a total of 468 participants in this study, 43.6% (n=204) used sprays correctly, and 95.1% of them were trained in this regard. Incorrect use of sprays was observed more in men and older people and there was no relationship between the correct or incorrect use and patients’ education level. Conclusion: Training patients with dyspnea how to use sprays is the essential component of prescribing these medications, and physicians and healthcare providers should consider providing training on correct use of sprays to increase the effectiveness of medications.