THE ABILITY OF A-AND-E PERSONNEL TO DEMONSTRATE INHALER TECHNIQUE

Objective--To determine the ability of accident and emergency (A&E) pe rsonnel to demonstrate metered dose inhaler technique. Methods--25 sen ior house officers and 25 nurses working in A&E were individually inte rviewed and assessed on their knowledge of inhaler technique and compe tence in demonstrating the correct use of a metered dose inhaler. Resu lts-Demonstration of inhaler technique was generally poor by the staff assessed. Although 22 (88%) of the senior house officers were aware o f the British Thoracic Society guidelines, only 10 (40%) routinely che cked inhaler technique when discharging asthmatic patients. Conclusion s--The A&E department offers an important opportunity for patient asse ssment and reinforcement of metered dose inhaler technique. Staff shou ld be made aware of the British Thoracic Society guidelines and be com petent at assessing and teaching inhaler technique.