According to studies, what percentage of patients is believed to use metered-dose inhalers correctly?
Only 50% of patient use metered-dose inhaler correctly according to studies, and this percentage decreases in frail elderly patients. The use of spacer attachments may overcome this problem. Small-volume nebulizers may be preferable to metered-dose inhalers, but they are considerably more costly than MDIs. Cost savings can be obtained when MDIs with spacers are substituted for nebulizers. Dry-powder inhalers (DPIs) are an alternative to MDIs and may be easier for elderly patients to use. • What class of medication is the cornerstone of pharmacologic treatment for COPD? Bronchodilators are the cornerstone of pharmacologic treatment of COPD. These agents decrease airway resistance, which can improve airflow, decrease the work of breathing, and decrease dyspnea. These medications have few adverse effects and are well tolerated by elderly patients. • When are prophylactic antibiotics recommended to treat infectious bacterial exacerbations? Prophylactic antibiotics are recommended only to t
