Testing whether mental load affects inhaler use in COPD
Checks whether a memory task changes inhaler technique in adults with COPD.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Cognitive Load and Inhaler Technique in COPD
Key facts
- Where
- Timișoara, RomaniaSee the site
Could this be for you?
Answer for yourself. This is not a decision: only the study team can say whether you can take part.
- Are you between 18 and 100 years old?
Source: NCT07786220, who can take part
Where in Romania
- "Dr. Victor Babeș" Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases and Pneumophthisiology, TimișoaraTimișoara, RomaniaTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- Spitalul Clinic de Boli Infecțioase și Pneumoftiziologie Dr. Victor Babeș Timișoara
- Trial code
- NCT07786220
- Record updated
- 26 August 2026
- Original description
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.Read full original descriptionShow less
Cognitive Load-Induced Inhaler Errors in COPD: Linking Dual-Task Mobility to Treatment Self-Management
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.
Inclusion: Adults aged 18 years or older; Confirmed diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); Clinically stable at the time of assessment; Current use of at least one handheld maintenance inhaler (pMDI, SMI, or DPI); Able to understand and follow study instructions; Able to perform the Timed Up and Go test; Able to complete the cognitive tasks and inhaler technique assessment; Able and willing to provide written informed consent.
Exclusion: Acute respiratory or other acute medical condition at the time of assessment; Known severe cognitive impairment or dementia that prevents completion of study procedures; Neurological or musculoskeletal impairment that prevents safe completion of the Timed Up and Go test; Severe visual, hearing, or communication impairment that prevents completion of the cognitive or inhaler tasks; Recent COPD exacerbation with incomplete recovery to baseline clinical status; Inability to independently handle or use the study inhaler device for assessment purposes.