Inhaler use and education characteristics among English and non-English speaking patients: A pilot needs assessment survey.

Abstract

Identify inhaler use characteristics among English (ESP) and non-English speaking patients (NSP) to develop quality improvement efforts. Outpatients were surveyed for technique confidence, education, preferences and disease control. We compared characteristics between ESP and NSP. Of 197 respondents, 75% were ESP, 25% were NSP. Compared to NSP, ESP responders were more likely female (57% vs 31%, p = 0.001), used inhalers for a longer time (10 vs 6 years, p = 0.008) and had higher rates of metered dose inhaler use (85% vs. 60%, p < 0.001). Both language groups had similar confidence in inhaler use, after adjustment for age, gender and duration of use. Similar rates of inhaler technique education were reported by ESP and NSP at the initial visit. More NSP reported receiving education at subsequent visits (54% vs. 72%, p = 0.03). Education for both groups was mostly performed by a clinician. Both language groups reported low internet use for learning proper technique, low interest in a separate education session, preferred an active learning method. These findings will be used to further develop quality inhaler education efforts at our institution. Local patient preferences should be considered when designing inhaler education programs.