Prevalência do uso inadequado de dispositivos inalatórios por pacientes com asma e/ou DPOC atendidos em ambulatório especializado.

Abstract

Evaluate the prevalence of inappropriate use of inhalation devices by patients with asthma and/or COPD treated in pneumology outpatient of Hospital Universitário Alcides Carneiro, linked to Federal University of Campina Grande, in the city of Campina Grande, Brazil. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 91 patients diagnosed with asthma and/or COPD, in use of drugs through inhalation devices such as Metered dose inhalers (MDI) and dry powder inhalers (DPI).The evaluation of the technique of use was made based on a checklist, where the patient should demonstrate how he/she has been using the device in presence of one of the interviewers. Results: The majority of the patients used the inhalation devices incorrectly (93,3% for DPI and 85,2% for MDI). Conclusion: High prevalence of misuse (93,3% for DPI and 85,2% for MDI) of inhalation devices was found. A multidisciplinary effective strategy involving doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and other health professionals is necessary for the promotion of educative measures in favor of the correct use of inhalation devices by the patients.