Introduction: The correct use of a prescribed inhaler device is crucial for achieving\nsuccessful disease management in asthma. This study investigates non-verbal, demonstrational\nvideos as a method of teaching inhaler naïve individuals how to use a dry powder inhaler\n(DPI). Methods: Video instructions for four DPIs were examined using a mixed methodology;\n31 inhaler-naïve individuals participated in the study. Participants were each shown a\ndemonstrational video of one the four inhalers, after each video the participant demonstrated\nhow they would use the inhaler. After demonstrating the use, participants crossed over to the next\ninhaler. The demonstrations were videotaped. A common questionnaire was filled at the beginning\nof the study and four inhaler-specific questionnaires which were filled out by the participant\nafter each inhaler demonstration. Results: The frequency of participant error varied between\ninhalers. When asked about how they perceived the video instructions, participants often stated\nthey would have liked to receive feedback on their performance. The importance of feedback was\nfurther highlighted by the fact that participants tended to overestimate their own inhaler technique.\nConclusion: Non-verbal videos may be more efficient for some DPIs than for others as a method for\nproviding inhaler instructions. Lack of feedback on the participantsâ?? inhaler performance emerged\nas a clear shortcoming of this educational method. Some steps in the inhalation process may be\nharder for individuals to remember and therefore require extra emphasis in order to achieve correct\ninhaler technique.
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