ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: To ascertain if A/E SHOs checked inhaler technique in asthmatic patients and the frequency of patient education. DESIGN: Postal questionnaire survey. SUBJECTS A/E SHOs in Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland from January-June 1994. RESULTS: 92 questionnaires were analysed from 25 (71%) hospitals. 61 (66%) SHOs did not check inhaler technique. The main reason given was pressure of work 38 (62%). 32 (33%) and 41 (44%) SHOs had never been shown how to use a turbohaler or a spinhaler respectively. 49 (54%) do not advise regarding the dangers of passive smoking. 29 (32%) do not inform patients of their PEFR. A/E SHOs are often unfamiliar with inhalers and the majority do not routinely check inhaler technique in asthmatic patients. Many aspects of asthmatic patient education are So Often Forgotten Today in the A/E department.
