OBJECTIVE: The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the effect of inhaler technique training on the self-care agency and self-efficacy level of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-seven patients were randomized and recruited. Thirty-four patients were allocated to an intervention group and 33 to a control group. The study data were collected using a questionnaire form, the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES), the Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale (ESCAS), the Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale, and the modified Borg Dyspnea Scale. Interim and final follow-up was conducted with both groups 1 month and 3 months after the initial visit. RESULTS: In the final follow-up, it was observed that the majority of the patients (91.2%) in the intervention group used their inhaler drugs correctly. The intervention group dyspnea scores were better than those of the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, the mean score of all subdimensions of the CSES and the total ESCAS score showed increased in the intervention group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicated that inhaler training reduced the incorrect use of inhaler medication and the dyspnea experienced patients with COPD, and also improved self-care agency and self-efficacy.

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