Inhaler technique

Question 1

How should you start inhaler technique?

Answer 1

• introduce self
• confirm name and DOB
• explain procedure
• gain consent
• wash hands

Question 2

How would you perform inhaler technique?

Answer 2

• check expiry date
• ensure patient sat upright/standing
• remove plastic mouthpiece
• shake inhaler
• breathe out slowly & completely
• tight seal between lips and mouthpiece
• depress canister and begin slow deep inhalation
• remove inhaler and close lips
• hold breath for ~10s
• breathe normally for 20-30s
• take second puff
• check understanding
• observe patient

Question 3

What are metered dose inhalers?

Answer 3

‘normal’ inhaler

Question 4

What are easi-breathe metered dose inhalers?

Answer 4

• loads dose ready for inhalation when opened
• patient inhales sharply
• best for patients who struggle with MDI
• unsuitable for <5yrs

Question 5

What are dry powder inhalers?

Answer 5

• circular
• rotate open until clicks
  hold flat
• push dose preparing switch until clicks
• inhale sharply from mouthpiece
• rotate inhaler in opposite direction until mouthpiece and switch are covered
• unsuitable for children

Question 6

What are turbohalers?

Answer 6

• resemble missile
• twist off cap, rotate the bottom until clicks and return to neutral before inhaling as normal
• unsuitable for children

Question 7

What are spacers?

Answer 7

attachments to help children

• attach inhaler, ensure mouthpiece cover s on and trigger dose
• remove cap from spacer and inhaler as normal
• good for children and adults who struggl

Question 8

What are nebulisers?

Answer 8

• most commonly used in acute hospital setting

- distribute high doses in most air inhaled through mask

Question 9

When should a patient seek medical attention?

Answer 9

• if a patient has used their reliever inhaler more than 6 times in half an hour and still feels breathless