TY - JOUR T1 - Investigating the percentage of patients with COPD who could benefit from a change in inhaler JF - European Respiratory Journal JO - Eur Respir J DO - 10.1183/13993003.congress-2020.636 VL - 56 IS - suppl 64 SP - 636 AU - Karoline Litrup King AU - Lotte Jørgensen AU - Niels Lyhne AU - Anders Løkke Y1 - 2020/09/07 UR - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/56/suppl_64/636.abstract N2 - Introduction: Correct inhalation technique and choice of inhaler is essential for optimal effect in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).Aim: To evaluate the percentage of patients with COPD, on treatment, who could benefit from a change in inhaler.Method: Experienced respiratory nurses (ERN) from six specialized departments in the Central Denmark Region: Aarhus, Silkeborg, Horsens, Holstebro, Randers and Viborg received intensive training and reached consensus regarding how to test inhaler technique.In total 571 consecutive patients with COPD: females 49%, mean age 70, mean FEV1 45%, 68% current smokers, 27% newly referred, were tested with respect to inspiratory flow/capacity, condensed to a final recommendation using the following: In-checkTM DialTurbohaler test-flute VitalographVitalograph AIMTM (Aerosol Inhalation Monitor)Relevant placebo inhaler (PI)Results: In total 27% (4-43%) were needing change in device and 10% had to be corrected in inhalation technique.62% of the newly referred had a need for change/correction compared to 36% of the controls.6% of the patients (0-15%) had a need, but were not changed. Only 1% of the patients were reluctant to change inhaler. PI revealed significant errors in 25% of the patients.Inhalation medicine before/after: Dry Powder: 389/282 (68/49%). Soft Mist 252/282 (44/49%). Pressures Metered Dose: 66/135 (12/24%). 15% were changed to spacer use.Conclusion: Even in specialized COPD outpatient clinics up to 43% of the patients had a need for change in device - mainly newly referred. Almost none of the patients were reluctant to change inhaler. Despite intensive training and ERN, we found variation in the results between hospitals.FootnotesCite this article as: European Respiratory Journal 2020; 56: Suppl. 64, 636.This abstract was presented at the 2020 ERS International Congress, in session “Respiratory viruses in the "pre COVID-19" era”.This is an ERS International Congress abstract. No full-text version is available. Further material to accompany this abstract may be available at www.ers-education.org (ERS member access only). ER -