Question

What is the best response by the nurse when a client asks, "How will I know the canister is empty?" regarding the correct use of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI)? a) "Drop the canister in water to observe if it floats." b) "Contact your pharmacy to find out when to obtain a refill." c) "Count the number of doses as the inhaler is used." d) "Shake the canister and listen for any fluid movement."

Answer 1

The best way to know when a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is empty is to count the number of doses used. MDIs often have a counter to help with this. Other methods like shaking the canister or dropping it in water are not reliable.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most reliable way to judge when a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is empty is to count the number of doses you have used. Most MDIs come with a counter on the canister that indicates the number of doses left. If you're not counting, you may end up using the inhaler when it’s empty, without realizing it, and not receive the medication you need. So, the correct answer to your client's question is: "You count the number of doses as the inhaler is used." (option c). Methods such as shaking the canister or dropping it in water (options a and d) are not reliable ways to determine if an MDI is empty.

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