Inadequate quality of administration of intranasal corticosteroid sprays

PURPOSE: Considering the fact that many mistakes are still being made by asthmatic patients when inhaling lung medication, it is important to gain insight into current techniques used to administer intranasal corticosteroid sprays (INCS) in allergic rhinitis patients. In this study, we aimed to get insight into daily use of INCS and to determine if improvement of the technique is required. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A checklist, based on available patient information leaflets (PILs) and literature, was used to determine the participants’ application of the techniques used to administer INCS. These applied techniques were compared with steps described in PILs and recommended essential steps. RESULTS: In the overall population (64 participants) four participants (6%) carried out all steps as described in the PIL and seven participants (11%) carried out all recommended essential steps. CONCLUSION: The technique used to administer INCS is inadequate. Uniform and generally applicable instructions are needed and patients using INCS should be guided better.