Role of the pharmacist in improving inhaler technique and asthma management in rural areas in Jordan.

Introduction: Pharmacists can have a valuable role in educating patients on correct inhaler technique leading to improved asthma management. Rural areas can benefit from the role of the pharmacist considering the barriers found in attending primary health-care facilities.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the impact of inhaler technique education delivered by pharmacists on patients' inhaler technique, Asthma Control Test (ACT) score, forced expiratory volume in the first 1 second (FEV%), and reliever use (puffs/day).

Inter-professional education unveiling significant association between asthma knowledge and inhaler technique.

Objectives: To explore whether an association exists between health care professionals' (HCPs) asthma knowledge and inhaler technique demonstration skills.

Methods: HCPs' asthma knowledge and inhaler technique demonstration skills were assessed at baseline at an inter-professional educational workshop focusing on asthma medication use. Asthma knowledge was assessed via a published questionnaire.

Inhaler technique training and health-care professionals: effective long-term solution for a current problem.

Introduction: The aims of this study were (1) to assess the ability of a range of health-care professionals (HCPs: specialists [physicians specializing in management of airways disease], general practitioners, pharmacists, pharmacist assistants, nurses, and respiratory therapists) in Jordan to demonstrate the correct use of some commonly used inhalers using standardized checklists, with highest scores indicating optimal use, and (2) to evaluate the short-term and long-term effectiveness of a single educational intervention on the HCPs' skills in using inhalers.

Methods: HCPs' inhaler technique was assessed at baseline. All HCPs were then invited to attend a workshop on asthma management with particular reference to inhaler use.