Question

The nurse is teaching the client about the use of the pictured item with a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). The nurse instructs the client as follows: (Select all that apply.)

a) Hold your breath after using.
b) Use shallow inhalations with the device.
c) Take a fast, deep inhalation from the device.
d) Activate the MDI multiple times.
e) The device may decrease the delivery of the MDI medication.

Answer 1

The correct use of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) involves holding your breath after inhalation and taking a fast, deep breath to deliver the medication effectively to the lungs. Shallow breaths, activating the MDI multiple times, and believing the device decreases medication delivery are incorrect techniques.

Step-by-step explanation:

When instructing a client on the use of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), it is important to provide the correct technique for the medication to be most effective. The nurse's instructions should include:

• Hold your breath after using: This allows the medication to settle in the lungs and increases its absorption.
• Take a fast, deep inhalation from the device: A quick deep breath helps to draw the medication deep into the lungs, reaching more of the airways and alveoli.

The incorrect instructions that should not be followed are:

• Use shallow inhalations with the device: Shallow breaths would not allow the medication to reach deep into the lungs where it is most needed.
• Activate the MDI multiple times: This can lead to overdosing and reduce the medication's efficacy.
• The device may decrease the delivery of the MDI medication: Proper use of the device should not decrease the effectiveness of the medication.

Inhalation technique is critical for managing conditions like asthma, which can cause chest tightness and difficulty breathing. With the proper inhalation technique, the medication contained in an MDI can be delivered effectively to ease these symptoms.