TY - JOUR T1 - Inhaler technique: An unmet need in patients with difficult asthma? JF - European Respiratory Journal JO - Eur Respir J VL - 42 IS - Suppl 57 SP - P700 AU - Toby Capstick AU - Ian Clifton AU - Julie Morgan AU - Jon Silcock AU - Alison Blenkinsopp Y1 - 2013/09/01 UR - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/42/Suppl_57/P700.abstract N2 - Introduction: Patients with difficult asthma require specialist multi-disciplinary care. Assessment of inhaler technique is vital to ensure that medicines are used effectively. This audit forms part of a research study assessing the effects of pharmacist interventions in difficult asthma.Aims: To determine how frequently patients are able to use inhalers despite previous education.Methods: Adults attending a difficult asthma clinic were recruited to the study. Asthma control was measured using Juniper’s ACQ. Inhaler technique was assessed for devices currently or previously used by each patient, as optimal (no errors), satisfactory (some minor errors) or unsatisfactory (at least one critical error, significantly affecting lung deposition).Results: 25 patients (mean ACQ 2.7) performed a total of 81 inhaler technique assessments (see table). This had previously been assessed by a nurse in the difficult asthma clinic (21 patients), practice nurse (5), hospital pharmacist (4), consultant physician (4), community pharmacist (1) or GP (1). Despite previous training only 25 assessments (31%) were performed optimally. At least one critical error was made in 46 (57%) assessments, identified in significantly more aerosol than dry powder devices (Fisher’s Exact Test, p=0.003).View this table:Conclusions: Despite previously having their inhaler technique assessed, many patients with difficult asthma made critical errors that may contribute to poor asthma control. It is crucial that inhaler technique education is performed by trained healthcare professionals. ER -