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.
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