Introduction

Inhaled medication is the cornerstone of management of asthma, but poor inhaler technique can lead to reduced asthma control and increased risk of exacerbations.¹ One of the factors identified as contributing to incorrect inhaler technique is lack of patient education on how to use their inhaler.² Healthcare professionals can provide highly effective inhaler skills training.³

On completion of this module, you should be familiar with:

• The importance of correct inhaler technique in patients with asthma
• Common inhaler technique errors and their impact on outcomes
• Guideline recommendations for choosing an inhaler device and assessing inhaler technique and the NICE Patient Decision Aid
• Teaching inhaler technique and the UK Inhaler Group Standards and Competency document

Section 1. The importance of correct inhaler technique in patients with asthma

Section 2. Common inhaler errors and their impact on outcomes

Section 3. Guideline recommendations for choosing an inhaler device and assessing inhaler technique

Section 4. Teaching inhaler technique

Section 5. Key messages

Section 6. Reflection