H. Kurz et J. Riedler, Inhalation devices for the treatment of asthma - how much do paediatricians know about their correct use?, WIEN KLIN W, 111(11), 1999, pp. 443-445
The present study was undertaken to assess the practical and theoretical kn
owledge of paediatricians in regard of inhalation devices for the treatment
of childhood asthma.
Forty-one paediatricians (39 from different parts of Austria and 2 from Swi
tzerland), all of them running hospital-based chest clinics, were tested in
regard of 4 items (Diskhaler, Metered dose inhaler (MDI) with Aerochamber,
cleaning of an Aerochamber and a Pari Junior jet nebuliser). Practical per
formance and theoretical knowledge were assessed. Scoring was done by one c
onsultant using a score of 1-5, with 1 point being given for the poorest pe
rformance and 5 points for the best.
Overall performance was acceptable with a median of 13 points (the maximum
achievable score was 20), but there were some deficits in the practical use
of special devices. Better training on the use of different devices for in
halation therapy of asthmatic children is desirable.