Inhaler technique in Paediatric Asthma Patients V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A cross sectional, observational study to better understand inhaler technique and training in paediatric asthma patients in the community setting in Essex, UK.
IRAS ID
360846
Contact name
Matthew Osborne
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Essex
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 2 months, 15 days
Research summary
A cross sectional, observational study to better understand inhaler technique and training in paediatric asthma
patients in the community setting in Essex, UK.Asthma remains the most common long term medical condition in children and young people. Asthma affects the
airways causing inflammation which is treated with inhaled medications, such as Corticosteroids. The correct use of
the devices used to deliver inhaled medication is vital for treatment to be effective. The goal of treatment is to bring
asthma symptoms under control. Poor asthma control increases the risk of poor outcomes, acute asthma
exacerbations, and death.Devices used for asthma medications include metered dose inhalers (MDI) and dry powder inhalers (DPI). It is
recommended that a spacer is used with MDI devices.Experience shows that children with uncontrolled asthma symptoms often have sub optimal inhaler technique.
Consideration should be given as to why inhaler technique is often sub optimal. When the child is prescribed asthma
medication, is any instruction or training given to the parent/child? If so, who delivers this training/instruction and are
they given any training themselves?Survey method will be used to gather data from the parents/carers of children who have been prescribed asthma
medication. Parents will be recruited at face to face clinics held in the community setting. It is hoped to enrol
parent/carers of children with asthma, suspected asthma and viral induced wheeze. Sample size is estimated at 90
out of a possible 240. This will allow for missed or cancelled appointments and refusal or inability to participate.The study will last for 6 weeks. Participants will be given written information about the study and informed, written
consent will be sought. Three paediatric nursing colleagues have agreed to assist with data collection.REC name
London - West London & GTAC Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0968
Date of REC Opinion
21 Nov 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion