The feasibility and acceptabililty of video directly observed therapy (v-DOT) for achieving mastery of inhaler and nasal spray technique: A qualitative exploration.

<bold>Background:</bold> A qualitative exploration of a randomised pilot study to compare a novel augmented teaching method (video directly observed therapy (v-DOT)) with standard training in achieving mastery of inhaler+/-nasal spray technique. Our aim was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of using v-DOT. <bold>Methods:</bold> Semi-structured interviews conducted 3 months after mastery of technique achieved. Interviews conducted with parent(s) of study participants +/- study participant (age dependent). <bold>Results:</bold> 12 semi-structured interviews have been conducted to date. A selection of illustrative quotes are shown. Parents and participants found the experience rewarding. Part of this appeared to result from receiving itertive feedback: ‘Getting feedback and having time to kind of work on the steps was helpful.’ Parents also felt that the intervention helped in assuming more responsibility and building confidence in asthma management: ‘He definitely has become more confident in doing it himself. I think he also has a good insight now into how serious asthma is.’ ‘It was educational, and it held you accountable because that was a new habit we were starting.’ Parents were also encouraged that the intervention translated into clinical benefit: ‘ Well, I can kind of count on one hand the number of time he has used the blue inhaler from we have started this. So something is working by just giving him the brown everyday and having a routine now.’ <bold>Conclusion:</bold> v-DOT was deemed acceptable and feasible by study participants. Parents and participants felt that it helped to build confidence in optimising technique and translated into clinical benefit.