Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI)
MDI
Checklist of steps
Common problems
Source
National Asthma Council Australia 2013
Checklist of steps
- Remove cap
- Hold inhaler upright and shake well
- Breathe out gently
- Put mouthpiece between teeth without biting and close lips to form good seal
- Start to breathe in slowly through mouth and press down firmly on canister
- Continue to breathe in slowly and deeply
- Hold breath for about 10 seconds or as long as comfortable
- While holding breath, remove inhaler from mouth
- Breathe out gently away from mouthpiece
- If an extra dose is needed, wait 1 minute and then repeat steps 2 to 9
- Replace cap
Common problems
- Holding the inhaler in the wrong position
- Not breathing in at the same time as pressing the canister
- Not breathing in deeply enough
- Not holding breath for long enough
- Taking several puffs without waiting or shaking the inhaler in between
- Keep chin up and inhaler upright (not aimed at roof of mouth or tongue)
- People using a standard inhaler for a corticosteroid preventer medication should also use a spacer
- People with weak hands or osteoarthritis who have difficulty using a standard inhaler should ask their pharmacist about a Haleraid device
Source
National Asthma Council Australia 2013