Knowledge and Practical Skills of Medical Students and Healthcare Professionals Regarding Metered-dose Inhaler Use in Iraq: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: Asthma results from an amalgamation of three essential features: airflow obstruction, hyperresponsiveness of airways to endogenous or exogenous stimuli and inflammation. Inadequate knowledge of inhalation techniques is a major cause of therapeutic failure in asthma. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of medical students and medical staff regarding the correct use of metered-dose inhalers (MDIs). The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of medical students from the college of medicine at Alnahrin University and college of pharmacy Baghdad university and medical staff who working at a secondary general Iraqi hospital (Alkadimia teaching hospital) in term of their knowledge regarding to metered dose inhalers    (MDI). Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using written and practical assessment tools. The participants’ student from the college of medicine at Alnahrin University and college of pharmacy Baghdad University and medical staff who working at a secondary general Iraqi hospital (Alkadimia teaching hospital) were followed the use of written practice tests, about the use of metered dose inhalers. Score from (0-10) was given to each test and median score were calculated for each answer. Question with higher and lower correct values were identified and a descriptive comparison was made regarding the performance of various group. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal- Wallis method for comparison medians. A sequential logistic multiple regression analysis was also performed.  Results: Doctors and clinical pharmacists achieved significantly higher median scores than medical and pharmacy students. Conclusions: The study highlights significant gaps in MDI technique knowledge. Demonstrated insufficient knowledge in several critical steps of MDI use.