Is there potential to use augmented reality technology to provide demonstrative inhaler technique education for asthma patients? A qualitative study (Preprint)

BACKGROUND Many people with asthma use incorrect inhaler technique resulting in sub-optimal disease management and increased health service utilisation. Novel ways of delivering appropriate instructions are needed. OBJECTIVE This study explores stakeholder perspectives on the potential use of augmented reality (AR) technology to improve asthma inhaler technique education. METHODS Based on existing evidence and resources, an information poster displaying the images of 22 asthma inhaler devices was produced. Using AR technology via a free smartphone application, the poster launched video demonstrations of correct inhaler technique for each device. Twenty‐one semi‐structured, one‐on‐one interviews with health professionals, people with asthma and key community stakeholders were conducted and data was analysed thematically using the Triandis model of interpersonal behaviour. RESULTS People with asthma believed they were competent with inhaler technique. However, health professionals and key community stakeholders identified that this perception was misguided and facilitates persistent incorrect inhaler use and sub‐optimal disease management. Delivering inhaler technique education using augmented reality was favoured by all participants, particularly around ease of use, with the ability to visually display inhaler techniques for each device. However, all participants identified some barriers, particularly for access and appropriateness of AR for older people. CONCLUSIONS Augmented reality technology may be a novel means to address poor inhaler technique among certain cohorts of asthma patients and serve as a prompt for health professionals to initiate review of inhaler devices. A randomised controlled trial design is needed to evaluate efficacy of this technology for use in the clinical care setting.