Is inhaler technique training for non-respiratory specialist healthcare professionals adequate? (ID 293)
Southern Health NHS Trust
Funding: None
Abstract
BackgroundInhaled respiratory medication for patients with asthma and COPD is beneficial as it targets lungs, reducing risks of systemic side effects from oral therapy. Used correctly, inhalers can control respiratory symptoms, minimising risks of hospital admission.
Evidence suggests inhaler technique is inefficient. Limited understanding by hcp on correct use of inhaler devices can contribute to inadequate inhaler technique assessments.
Aims
To identify the need for inhaler technique assessment training for registered non- respiratory specialist hcps across Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Methods
A questionnaire was launched across inpatient and community settings.
Three Pharmacists independently highlighted that Pharmacy technicians complete inhaler technique assessments, so 20 additional Pharmacy technicians were included.
The survey was available for 3 weeks with weekly emailed reminders. A survey link was attached in the Trust’s weekly communication bulletin.
Results
The questionnaire was completed by 18.7% (439) of hcp and considered representative of population with 1/5 of work force responding. Pharmacy technicians were highest respondents with 74% (14) returns, fewest returns were from Registered nurses 17% (332).
Results show that non-respiratory specialist hcp do complete inhaler technique assessments and 36% (161) of them had received inhaler technique assessment training. Of that 36% (161), 86% (139) had received inhaler technique assessment training over a year ago.
Results show non-respiratory specialist hcp considered themselves more competent than confident completing inhaler technique assessments and 40% (171) of them did not understand the difference between Dry Powder and Metered Dose Inhalers.
97% agreed inhaler technique assessment improves patient care and 88% agreed if they received training on inhaler technique assessments it would improve patient care.
Conclusions
Non-respiratory specialist hcp do assess inhaler technique. This service evaluation has identified a need for inhaler technique training for non-respiratory specialist hcp.
Further work is needed to assess where training is prioritised across Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Conflicts of interest: None
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