EVALUATION OF INHALATION TECHNIQUE AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN RESPIRATORY DISEASES

Joycy George*, Rosmin Jacob and Dr. K. Krishnakumar

ABSTRACT

The correct use of inhalers can reduce the occurrence of Asthma and COPD to an extent. The Aim is to assess steps in use of inhaler devices in respiratory diseases & to evaluate the relationship of inhaler usage with quality of life. Main objectives of the study were to assess the inhalation technique & quality of life in patients who have respiratory diseases mainly Asthma & COPD, To educate patients on proper usage of inhalers and To evaluate association of inhaler use with respiratory disease control, hospital visits .A prospective observational study was conducted among110 patients diagnosed with respiratory diseases like Asthma& COPD and are using inhalers in the pulmonology and general medicine department of a 450 bedded tertiary care hospital, for a period of 10 months to assess the steps of inhaler use and its relationship with quality of life in the given population. Both male & female patients with age greater than 18 who diagnosed with Asthma & COPD & are using inhalers. Patients who are not using inhalers and Patients in emergency departments and out patients and also Patients with age less Than 18 were excluded from the study. Clinical pharmacist played an important role to improve quality of life through patient education. Hence by effective drug therapy, correct use of inhaler, and adequate pharmacist intervention Quality of life of Asthma and COPD patients can be improved and thus their recurrent visits to hospitals also reduced.

Keywords: Asthma, inhaler, usage, errors.