Pharmacist-led monitoring of patients with respiratory disease

Abstract

Community pharmacists have a crucial role as educators in the management of inhalation therapy through medication use reviews. The objective of this study was to develop and assess the impact of a pharmacist-led medication use review in patients with chronic respiratory conditions. Sixty patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or asthma were recruited from a community pharmacy. A questionnaire for a semi-structured interview was developed and a one-to-one consultation was conducted at baseline, after one month and after six months. A feedback questionnaire was also undertaken. The correct technique was demonstrated by the researcher at baseline. The inhalation technique of the patients was assessed during consultations using a Vitalograph Aerosol Inhalation MonitorTM (AIM) device. A Peak Flow Meter (PFM) was used to keep a record of peak flow rate. Out of the 60 patients who participated in the first consultation, only 7 patients had good control when performing inhalation technique. In the second consultation, 42 out of the 60 patients participated and 15 of these 42 patients demonstrated a good technique. The number of patients with poor control decreased from 26 to 3 patients. In consultation 3, 10 out of the 15 patients performed a good technique. The PFM readings obtained from consultation 1 and consultation 2 were similar. Findings indicate an improved inhalation technique during follow-ups. This study highlights that a pharmacist-led consultation within a community pharmacy setting enhances the effective and safe use of medications in patients with chronic respiratory disease.