Widespread inhaler misuse in COPD patients: Need for training

Study: Prevalence of Critical Errors and Insufficient Peak Inspiratory Flow in Patients Hospitalized With COPD in a Department of General Internal Medicine: A Cross-Sectional Study . Image Credit: AtlasStudio / Shutterstock.com Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic lung condition characterized by loss of lung elasticity, which leads to dysfunctional gaseous exchange.

COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide, with over 3.2 million deaths caused by COPD in 2019. A recent study published in the Journal of the COPD Foundation examines errors in the use or design of inhalers used by hospitalized COPD patients.

Differences in inhaler design Inhalers are frequently used for the treatment of COPD. Poor inhalation techniques can impact treatment outcomes in COPD by increasing the risk of impaired symptom control, reduced quality of life, exacerbated illness, and hospitalization. Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) can provide sufficient therapeutic efficacy if the patient inhales strongly and deeply enough to break up the medication-carrying powder to allow it to coat the small airways.

If the patient does not achieve adequate peak inspiratory flow (PIF), exacerbation and hospitalization risk worsens. Primary causes of COPD include long-term exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, and dust, with smoking being the most significant risk factor. Patients with cognitive impairment or poor manual dexterity may not be able to use inha.