Effectiveness of multimedia-assisted training on inhaler usage technique, which is the optimum technique?

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to investigate the most appropriate edu-cation method for patients to use their inhaler devices with the proper technique.PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study had a cross-sectional, multicenter design. 525 con-secutive patients who had never used an inhal-er therapy before were included in the study. Sev-en different types of inhalers were evaluated. 75 patients were included for each device type. For each device type, 25 patients were trained by their own physicians who personally demonstrated the use of the device [verbal education with physical demonstration (VEWPD)], 25 were given multime-dia-assisted training (MAT), and 25 received both types of training together (first VEWPD followed by MAT). After the patients were trained, inhaler medications were used under the supervision of a physician. Correct use of the inhaler devices and perceptions of convenience were scored.RESULTS: For Ellipta inhaler device and Le-vered Diskus inhaler device, the proportion of patients using their devices properly was sig-nificantly higher in patients who were instructed with both of the methods together compared to other education groups (p = 0.011, p = 0.015). The effects of different types of training on learning in Sanohaler, Diskus inhaler, and Pressurized me-tered dose inhaler devices were the same.CONCLUSIONS: We could not come to a con-clusion that multimedia training was more benefi-cial than other training. As an unexpected result, in almost all of the devices, patients who received multimedia training in combination with verbal training did not develop better learning despite be-ing shown the use of the device twice (except El-lipta inhaler, and Levered Diskus inhaler device).