Handling Errors in the Use of Inhalation Devices: Inhalation Technique Skills and Knowledge in Pediatric Nurses

Abstract

Background: Children suffering from bronchial diseases need assistance from nurses in the use of inhalation devices.

Purpose: We aimed to assess nurses' skills and knowledge concerning drug administration with inhalation devices in hospitalized pediatric patients.

Methods: An expert panel defined medication errors in drug administration with inhalation devices in children. We monitored 241 inhalation procedures to investigate nurses' inhalation technique skills. Twenty-nine nurses completed a questionnaire to assess nurses' knowledge.

Results: Skills: In 93 of 241 (39%) inhalation procedures, the mask/mouthpiece did not fit airtight. In none of the 11 inhalations administering a glucocorticoid, the patient's mouth was thoroughly cleaned afterward. Knowledge: Ten of 29 nurses (34%) thought a distance between mask and the patient's face was acceptable. Only 16 of 29 (55%) knew that it is necessary to thoroughly clean the patient's mouth after the inhalation of budesonide.

Conclusions: We found that education on inhalation procedures including practical training is required to increase patient safety.