Abstract
Introduction: The value of obtaining children's reports about their health from questionnaires is important in clinical paediatrics and child health research. FSI-10 questionnaire for asthma devices' assessment has been developed and implemented for adult patients. The reliable Greek version has also been used in adults for both clinical practice and research.
Objectives: The aim of this pilot study was to examine the suitability of Greek FSI-10 in asthmatic children in order to measure their satisfaction and the usability of inhalers in daily practice.
Methods: This 8-week pilot study was designed and conducted as an open label, single-centre, non interventional, notified to regulatory authorities. Patients have consented in study participation by their legally authorised persons. 33 (15 female) asthmatic school children aged between 6 and 16 years were on the same device use at least two months before study enrollment. Four different breath activated dry powder inhalers (Aeroliser®, Elpenhaler®, Diskus®, Turbuhaler®) were used by study subjects. Questionnaire's items were child-reported and completed by the two pediatricians who interviewed in details the selected patients at the end of the study. All necessary clarifications and explanations were also given by the phycisians during interview.
Results: Evidence that school children can reliably assess their inhalers by using the Greek FSI-10 was concluded. The questionnaire was easily understood. Reliability was very good as shown by Cronbach test (Cronbach's alpha = 0.925).
Conclusions: Greek FSI-10 may be used in pediatric school aged population. Minor modifications may improve its measuring properties and reliability. Further work on this topic is needed.
- © 2011 ERS
