Technique used for inhalers
Inhalers are to be taken following these instructions :
1. Remove the cap
2. Hold the inhaler upright and shake well
3. If using the inhaler for the first time, spray into the air first to check that it works.
4. Take a few deep breathes and then breathe out gently.
5. Place mouthpiece in your mouth and put your teeth around it without biting and close lips around the mouthpiece, holding it between your lips.
6. Start to breathe in slowly and deeply through the mouthpiece and as you breathe in pres down on the inhaler canister to release the medicine. One press releases one puff of medicine.
7. Continue to breathe in deeply to ensure the medicine gets into your lungs.
8. Hold your breath for 10 seconds or as long as you comfortably can, before breathing out slowly.
9. If you need to take another puff, wait for 30 seconds, shake your inhaler again then repeat steps 4 to 7.
10. Replace the cap on the mouthpiece.
11. Rinse mouth with water after use.
References
Asthma inhaler techniques in adults. (n.d.). Evidence-Based Clinical Decision Support at the Point of Care | UpToDate. Retrieved April 11, 2013, from http://www.uptodate.com/contents/asthma-inhaler-techniques-in-adults-beyond-the-basics
How to use your metered dose inhaler. (n.d.). NetDoctor.co.uk - The UK's leading independent health website. Retrieved April 11, 2013, from http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/howtousemeter.htm
How to use your metered dose inhaler. (n.d.). NetDoctor.co.uk - The UK's leading independent health website. Retrieved April 11, 2013, from http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/health_advice/facts/howtousemeter.htm