• The Journal of Korean Academic Society of Nursing Education
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• v.16 no.1
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• pp.111-120
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• 2010

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the correct use of inhalers and to examine the patients characteristics affecting correct use of inhalers in patients with obstructive pulmonary disease. Method: Subjects were 280 patients with obstructive pulmonary disease who visited the internal pulmonary outpatient departments in 2 university hospitals in Korea. Inhaler use of each patient was assessed using a checklist recommended by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Expert Panel. Result: Most subjects used a DPI or MDI. The overall mean score of correct use was 72.09. Most subjects responded they knew well how to use their inhalers. Most frequent error was 'not fully exhaling before inhalation'. A younger age, higher educational level, living with family, and awareness of inhaler use were significantly associated with correct use of inhalers. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that most of patients were unable to use inhalers correctly even though they had prior educational experiences. Regular assessing of inhaler use and adequate inhaler education considering patients characteristics by nurses are needed.