BACKGROUND

Patient knowledge of correct inhaler technique is essential in the treatment of pulmonary disease. Computer delivery of educational content may augment existing teaching efforts.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether a computer-based tutorial on inhaler technique could improve patients' knowledge and ability to correctly demonstrate inhaler technique.

METHODS

A total of 34 adults with pulmonary disease and experience using inhalers were randomized into the control or intervention groups. The intervention group viewed the tutorial, after which they demonstrated their inhaler technique and completed an Inhaler Technique Knowledge Test. Control group patients, who did not view the tutorial, were also evaluated on their demonstrated inhaler technique and technique knowledge. Additional information obtained included demographics, illness and treatment history, and patients' use of computers. Lastly, all patients who viewed the tutorial completed a brief questionnaire eliciting tutorial feedback. Control group patients were invited to view the tutorial after other data collection was complete. The 2 principal outcomes were the observed inhaler technique score and the inhaler technique knowledge test score. Comparisons between groups were conducted using Student's t-test and chi(2) test, with a p value less than 0.05 considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Eighteen subjects were enrolled in the computer group; 16 were in the control group. The intervention group demonstrated significantly better inhaler technique, with a mean Observed Inhaler Technique Score of 88.3 +/- 12.3 compared with 67.4 +/- 19.2 for the control group (p = 0.001). The intervention group also scored significantly higher on the Inhaler Technique Knowledge Test, with a score of 80.9 +/- 17.0 versus 67.4 +/- 11.8 for the control group (p = 0.01). Overall, the program appeared acceptable to patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients in the tutorial group demonstrated better inhaler technique and scored higher on the Inhaler Technique Knowledge Test compared with those in a control group. This tutorial may be a useful educational tool to enhance patient education regarding inhaler technique.