Cognitive Load and Inhaler Technique in COPD

Summary

This study evaluates whether cognitive load affects inhaler technique in adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During a single study visit, participants will complete assessments of cognitive function, mobility, and respiratory status. Dual-task mobility will be assessed using the Timed Up and Go test performed alone and while completing a cognitive task. Inhaler technique will then be evaluated in two conditions: usual inhaler use without an additional task and inhaler use while maintaining a short sequence of digits in working memory. Inhaler technique will be scored using a standardized five-step device-specific checklist, and inhaler use time will also be recorded. The study will examine whether inhaler technique worsens under cognitive load and whether this deterioration is associated with dual-task mobility performance, cognitive function, respiratory symptoms, and functional capacity. No inhaler training or correction will be provided between the two inhaler conditions. All assessments are performed during a single visit.

Conditions

• COPD

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Working-Memory Cognitive Load During Inhaler Use

Participants are presented with a standardized five-digit sequence before inhaler use and are instructed to retain the sequence in working memory while completing their usual inhaler technique. The sequence is presented once at approximately one digit per second. Participants do not verbalize the digits during inhaler use. Immediately after completing the inhaler maneuver, they reproduce the sequence in reverse order. Inhaler technique is simultaneously assessed using a standardized five-item device-specific checklist, and inhaler-use time is recorded.

BEHAVIORAL

Single-Task Inhaler Use

Participants use their usual maintenance inhaler without a concurrent cognitive task. They are instructed to use the inhaler as they normally do at home. Inhaler technique is assessed using the same standardized five-item device-specific checklist, and inhaler-use time is recorded. No inhaler-technique training, correction, or feedback is provided before completion of both study conditions.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Spitalul Clinic de Boli Infecțioase și Pneumoftiziologie Dr. Victor Babeș Timișoara

  lead OTHER_GOV

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

OTHER

Masking

NONE

Model

CROSSOVER

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

100 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2026-08-21

Primary Completion

2027-09-30

Completion

2027-11-30

Countries

• Romania

Study Locations