How to Use an Inhaler as a Nurse Instructing a Client

Both metered-dose and dry powder inhalers deliver medication directly to the lungs of patients with respiratory problems or asthma. If used correctly, inhalers, also known as bronchodilators, open up passageways to the lungs so you can breathe easier. Nurses often have to instruct clients as to the proper usage of an inhaler. With metered-dose inhalers, it is important to depress the medication canister properly and inhale the dose deeply to receive the adequate amount of medicine. Dry powder inhalers are easier to use and only require you to breathe in quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Spacer or valved holding chamber

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove the cap from the inhaler's mouthpiece.

• 2

  Attach the back end of the spacer or valved holding chamber, if used, to the inhaler mouthpiece. The spacer is a device that helps to deliver medication to the lungs more effectively by giving you more time to take smaller breaths.

• 3

  Hold the metered-dose inhaler upright in your hand with the mouthpiece facing you, your thumb on the bottom of the medication canister and your pointer and middle fingers on the top of the pump. Hold the dry powder inhaler horizontally.

• 4

  Prime the metered-dose inhaler by shaking it and spraying it at least three times before attempting to use. Push down on the canister with your pointer and middle fingers, then release, to spray the medication.

• 5

  Breathe all the air out of your lungs in preparation to receive the medication.

• 6

  Put the mouthpiece in your mouth and tighten your lips around it before breathing back in.

• 7

  Depress the medication from the metered-dose inhaler canister by pressing down once on the top of the inhaler with your pointer and middle fingers and then releasing. There is no canister to push on the dry powder inhaler.

• 8

  Inhale slowly immediately after pushing down on the canister when using a metered-dose inhaler. Breathe in quickly when using the dry powder inhaler.

• 9

  Hold your breath for as long as you can, about 10 seconds, so that the medication can successfully spread through your lungs.

• 10

  Repeat puffs as prescribed by your doctor, waiting a minute between each puff and shaking the inhaler between each use.

• 11

  Replace the cap to cover the mouthpiece.