Many People Misuse Devices for Asthma, Allergic Reaction
Memory of correct way to use inhalers, epinephrine pens faded over time, researchers report
The study volunteers demonstrated how to use a device to the researchers.
Of the 84 percent who misused the epinephrine, more than half missed three or more steps involved in the correct use of the device. The most common error was not leaving the shot in for 10 seconds.
"We instruct patients to leave the unit in place for 10 seconds to make sure 100 percent of the medication is injected," Ghazi said.
Of the 93 percent who misused asthma inhalers or spacers, 63 percent missed three or more steps. The most common mistake was not exhaling before depressing the canister to inhale the medication, according to the study.
Time appeared to be a significant factor in patients' memories. For those prescribed epinephrine injectors within a year, 10 percent had perfect use. If they had the device for one to five years, just 5 percent had perfect use. If someone had been given the device five years prior, perfect use dropped to just 1 percent, the study found.
"This study really drives home the need to reinforce the use of these devices every time a patient comes in," said Dr. Jennifer Appleyard, chief of allergy and immunology at St. John Providence Health System in Detroit. "And, it's not enough to just give instructions. People need to show me how they use the device," she added.
Appleyard, who was not involved with the study, said that epinephrine injectors come in kits that have training devices. She also suggested practicing with expired devices by injecting a piece of fruit, such as an orange. "It's important to feel comfortable with the injector. Everyone needs to practice," Appleyard said.
Some devices have instructions written on them, and others will talk you through the steps, according to Ghazi.
Both experts said if your doctor hasn't shown you how to use your medical devices, you need to speak up. "Talk to your caregiver, and make sure you're getting instructions whenever you visit. Make sure you're getting it right, and clarify any doubts you have," Ghazi said.
Many Misuse Devices for Asthma, Allergic Reaction
Memory of correct way to use inhalers, epinephrine pens faded over time, researchers report
The study volunteers demonstrated how to use a device to the researchers.
Of the 84 percent who misused the epinephrine, more than half missed three or more steps involved in the correct use of the device. The most common error was not leaving the shot in for 10 seconds.
"We instruct patients to leave the unit in place for 10 seconds to make sure 100 percent of the medication is injected," Ghazi said.
Of the 93 percent who misused asthma inhalers or spacers, 63 percent missed three or more steps. The most common mistake was not exhaling before depressing the canister to inhale the medication, according to the study.
Time appeared to be a significant factor in patients' memories. For those prescribed epinephrine injectors within a year, 10 percent had perfect use. If they had the device for one to five years, just 5 percent had perfect use. If someone had been given the device five years prior, perfect use dropped to just 1 percent, the study found.
"This study really drives home the need to reinforce the use of these devices every time a patient comes in," said Dr. Jennifer Appleyard, chief of allergy and immunology at St. John Providence Health System in Detroit. "And, it's not enough to just give instructions. People need to show me how they use the device," she added.
Appleyard, who was not involved with the study, said that epinephrine injectors come in kits that have training devices. She also suggested practicing with expired devices by injecting a piece of fruit, such as an orange. "It's important to feel comfortable with the injector. Everyone needs to practice," Appleyard said.
Some devices have instructions written on them, and others will talk you through the steps, according to Ghazi.
Both experts said if your doctor hasn't shown you how to use your medical devices, you need to speak up. "Talk to your caregiver, and make sure you're getting instructions whenever you visit. Make sure you're getting it right, and clarify any doubts you have," Ghazi said.