Pharmaceutical care for patients using inhaler devices - assessment of pharmacists' knowledge

Pharmaceutical care for patients using inhaler devices - assessment of pharmacists' knowledge

Poster

Iveta Stamboliyska1, Emanuil Yordanov1, Kalina Andreevska1, Emil Hristov1, Tsvetomir Mitkov2
1Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, SU "St. Kliment Ohridski" , Sofia, Bulgaria
2Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH and Co. KG - Bulgaria branch

Inhaler delivery systems are extremely important for the administration of medicinal products in the treatment of asthma and COPD. They deliver drugs directly into the respiratory system and prevent adverse drug reactions. Their incorrect use leads to errors and reduces efficiency. Aim: To assess pharmaceutical care and pharmacists' knowledge of correct inhaler technique when using Spiriva and Spiolto Respimat. Materials and methods: We conducted a survey using the "Direct individual survey" method in the cities of Sofia, Plovdiv and Varna among 79 master pharmacists. The survey includes 12 closed-ended questions. The results were processed with descriptive statistical methods. Results and discussion: The pharmacist has a duty to inform patients on how to best and correctly use their medications. Patient education in handling medical devices such as drug delivery systems is an essential part of pharmaceutical care and good pharmacy practice. The results of our research show that a series of mistakes are made - incorrect inhalation technique, incorrect handling of the devices (preparation and positioning), ignorance of basic hygiene rules. Improper inhalation technique can result in a 50% reduction in the amount of drug deposited in the lung. Correct inhalation techniques improve clinical effectiveness, disease control, and reduce medical costs. About 92% of the patients' improved quality of life, reduced exacerbations , reduced number of doctor visits and improved sleep were related to the level of satisfaction with the inhaler device. Providing adequate pharmaceutical care and patient education leads to adherence to therapy and improves therapeutic outcomes.
Keywords: Pharmaceutical care, inhaler devices and techniques, Spiriva