Identifying critical inhalation technique errors in Dry Powder Inhaler use in patients with COPD based on the association with health status and exacerbations: findings from the multi-country cross-sectional observational PIFotal study

Table 1 Grouping of errors into 12 distinct error categories

Inhalation error, defined as incorrect performance of:		Device dependent	Device independent
Er1	Preparation	X
Er2	Remove protective cap	X
Er3	Sit up/stand straight & tilt head		X
Er4	Hold inhaler in correct position during preparation	X
Er5	Hold inhaler in correct position during inhalation	X
Er6	Breathe out completely before inhalation		X
Er7	Teeth and lips sealed around mouthpiece	X
Er8	Empty mouth before inhalation	X
Er9	Breathe in^a	X
Er10	Hold breath (for at least 6 s)		X
Er11	Breathe out calmly after inhalation		X
Er12	Rinse mouth		X

ISSN: 1471-2466