Abstract Body

Background and purpose: The incorrect inhalation technique is a problem in the control of asthma. Demonstrating the use of the inhaler, together with practical training, can help patients control their illness and improve their quality of life.

The objective of this work is to evaluate the technique for using inhaler devices and to increase the proportion of patients with asthma who use the inhaler correctly by 20%.

Methods: Asthma patients from a single Family Medicine Unit were invited to demonstrate inhalation technique. Errors were corrected and one month later, the inhalation technique of patients who had not performed the technique correctly was reviewed.

Results: 41 visits were made. 49% performed the following steps incorrectly: 2.5% did not rotate the device with the lid closed; 2.5% did not start inspiration slowly while activating the device; 19.5% did not perform a slow expiration until the functional reserve capacity; 19.5% did not hold their breath for 5 to 10 seconds after inspiration; and 41.5% did not wash the oral cavity after using the device.

On the 2nd visit, 10% did not hold their breath for five to ten seconds after inspiration, 15% did not exhale slowly until the functional reserve capacity and 15% did not wash the oral cavity after using the device. 35% (7 of 20 users) made no mistakes.

Conclusions: 35% of patients started using the inhaler correctly. The success of this intervention confirms the importance of adequate instruction and the revision of the inhalation technique in the medical appointments with asthmatic patients.