RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Can young children learn and follow the instructions relating to a new pMDI training device?
JF European Respiratory Journal
JO Eur Respir J
FD European Respiratory Society
SP P3831
VO 42
IS Suppl 57
A1 Mark Levy
A1 Mark Sanders
A1 Anne Rodman
A1 Richard Featherstone
YR 2013
UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/42/Suppl_57/P3831.abstract
AB Background: Correct pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) technique can be difficult for young children to achieve. A new training device (In-Check Flo-Tone®) which attaches to the pMDI mouthpiece produces a whistle at an appropriate inspiratory flow rate, during the inhalation manoeuvre.Aim: An observational study on the ability of asthmatic children to correctly use the Flo-Tone.Methods: 18 children, 10M and 8F, aged 4-12 yrs (mean 8.1) with mild (13) to moderate (5) asthma (mean duration 4.9 yrs) were trained by an asthma nurse to use the device when combined with a placebo pMDI. Repeat-practice and assistance from an adult were permitted, simulating the clinic-to-home setting. After 20 minutes each child was asked to use the device plus pMDI three times. We defined successful Flo-Tone use as the ability to get all of the following 4 tasks correct at least once: attach Flo-Tone; generate whistle; actuate pMDI during whistle; maintain whistle during inspiration.Results:View this table:Successful Flo-Tone use correlated with age and spacer use (routine and intermittent):Children under 7 years (n=6) failed to achieve all 4 tasks; 5 through difficulty actuating the canister on each of the tests. One child also failed to attach the Flo-Tone. All of these children were using spacer devices routinely. Lack of success was linked to inability to coordinate actuation with inhalation.Conclusion: In this sample, most asthmatic children aged 7 years and older correctly used the Flo-Tone training device. Spacer use should not imply correct technique. Further study with controls is needed.