Training of Inhalation Technique in Hospitalized Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Patients - a Pilot Study

Could Training in Inhalation Technique During the Hospital Stay and Discharge Services From the Pharmacy Reduce the Rate of Readmissions for COPD Patients? - A Pilot Study

Inhalation drugs are essential in the treatment of COPD, in controlling symptoms and preventing exacerbations. The aim of this pilot study is to collect data necessary for the planning of future efficacy trials. We plan to assess the value of providing training in inhalation technique to hospitalized COPD patients. Data on rehospitalizations will be collected from the hospital's medical records and from the National Patient Registry . The inhalation technique of all recruited patients will de assessed at baseline. The patients will then be randomised 1:1 to the intervention or standard care group. The intervention consists of a drug counselling, focusing on inhalation technique. In addition patients in the intervention group will have their medicines personally delivered from the hospital pharmacy at discharge (discharge service). Patients will be asked to fill in questionnaires evaluating the inhalation training and the discharge service

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients admitted to the pulmonary ward, the Medical Department, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway

Exclusion Criteria:

Patients

• previously included to the study
• usually not administering their inhalation drugs themselves
• using nebulizer chamber with their drug
• who are contagious, thus restricting accessibility of personnel
• who are not able to provide informed consent