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Predictors of proper inhaler technique and asthma control in pediatric patients with asthma
Author(s) -
Almomani Basima A.,
AlQawasmeh Batool S.,
AlShatnawi Samah F.,
Awad Samah,
Alzoubi Sirin A.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
pediatric pulmonology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.866
H-Index - 106
eISSN - 1099-0496
pISSN - 8755-6863
DOI - 10.1002/ppul.25263
Subject(s) - medicine , inhaler , asthma , checklist , dry powder inhaler , pediatrics , physical therapy , outpatient clinic , psychology , cognitive psychology
Background Improper use of asthma inhalers is one of the potential factors of poor asthma control among children. This study aimed to assess the proper handling of asthma inhalers and asthma control in addition to factors influencing them among pediatric patients who self‐administer their inhalers. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted in Jordan from February 2019 to February 2020. All eligible pediatric patients with asthma attending outpatient settings were approached. The inhalation technique was assessed according to a standard checklist, and asthma control was assessed using the Asthma Control Test. Results A total of 150 patients were included in this study. A metered dose inhaler (MDI) was the most commonly used inhaler device (89.4%) which was used appropriately by only 13.4% of participants. Whereas, appropriate use of Turbohaler and Diskus was reported by 38.5% and 28.9%, respectively. The higher level of parental knowledge was associated with higher number of correct MDI steps (OR = 1.066; 95% CI = 1.010–1.125; p = .020) and less reported errors in critical steps (OR = 0.949; 95% CI = 0.900–0.999; p = .047). Higher level of both parental education and pediatric average stigma score (less stigmatized) were associated with better asthma control ([OR = 5.181; 95% CI = 1.238–21.677; p = .024], [OR = 2.825; 95% CI = 1.420–5.619; p = .003], respectively). Conclusion Continuous education on appropriate inhaler self‐administration for asthmatic children is highly recommended. Clinical pharmacists play a major role toward improving the administration of inhalers through patient training and counseling.