A systematic review about the possible role of learning theories in the development of a new educational model for inhalation technique in patients with asthma or COPD
Research Question from the IPCRG’s Research Prioritisation exercise: ‘’What are the best methods to teach about inhaler use and how to incorporate this in daily clinical practice?’
Background: Adequate inhaler technique is crucial to maximise the benefits of inhaled medication. Although the importance of teaching a correct inhaler technique has been recognised, yet, the optimal method of inhaler technique education is still unknown. Inhaler technique can be considered as a ‘closed motor skill’, hence applying motor learning principles could support the tailoring of inhaler technique education. With this in mind, the first aim of this systematic review is to summarise useful theories and models on closed motor skill acquisition. Secondly, this project aims to develop an education model for improving inhaler technique by applying the derived theoretical principles.
Methods: A literature search will be conducted on the electronic databases Pubmed, PsycINFO, ERIC, CINAHL, including papers published any time up to April 2023. For inclusion in the review, studies should describe (1) a theoretical framework of motor learning involving adults; (2) consider a closed reproductive motor skill; (3) be written in English or Dutch. Studies will be excluded if they describe motor learning in patients with cognitive disabilities. Two reviewers will independently identify potentially relevant articles based on titles and abstracts. Full-text articles will be retrieved and checked independently for compliance with inclusion and exclusion criteria. Disagreements will be resolved by consensus or a third reviewer. The quality of evidence will be evaluated by a modified version of the Downs and Black checklist.
Questions to discuss: Do you think such a review will be useful for the setting you are working? Any additions to the search strategy? What would be the optimal timing of educational-interventions targeting inhaler technique errors, and is continuous monitoring needed for all patients?
Resource information
- Asthma
- COPD
- Treatment - drug