How to Review Inhaler Device Technique

Always use a checklist, one for you one for patient to review as you go through steps. Consider use of video on patient or caregiver's phone to capture correct technique and or coaching tips. Involve family or caregiver in all teaching, as this may assist with adherence (even if technique is good). See the resources below for provider (and patient) checklists; you may also view lung.ca's video of a patient following correct technique.

Hover over the highlighted sections of the checklist to identify common errors.

Breezhaler
Handihaler
 

How to use a Breezhaler

Interactive Checklist

Prepare the device

  1. Pull off the cap then open the inhaler to expose the chamber for the capsule.
  2. Peel away the protective foil from the blister to expose only one capsule, place capsule into the chamber
  3. Close the device, you should hear a click

Get ready to inhale.

  1. Pierce the capsule by holding upright, then press both buttons together at same time, release the buttons fully
  2. Breathe out (away from inhaler)
  3. Place mouthpiece in your mouth, between teeth and close lips firmly around it
  4. Breathe in rapidly but steadily as deeply as you can. You should hear a whirring noise (capsule is rattling)
  5. Hold breath for 5 to 10 seconds, while removing inhaler from mouth
  6. Open the inhaler to see if any powder is left in capsule. If any left repeat inhalation without piercing the capsule again, because the tiny pieces of capsule could go into your lungs.
  7. Tip the used empty capsule in garbage, wash your hands.

Resources

Lung.ca instructional video

How to use your Breezhaler

Breezhaler Provider Checklist

Knowledge Check

Before proceeding, we suggest that you download the provider checklist above, to review the correct technique steps, so you can answer the module questions which ask you to identify patient or nurse errors in the clips.

How to use the Handihaler

Interactive Checklist

Prepare the device:

  1. Open the lid and mouthpiece
  2. Peel away protective foil on flat side of blister to expose only one capsule, place capsule into the  chamber
  3. Close mouthpiece, ensuring a click is heard

Get ready to inhale

  1. Pierce the capsule by holding inhaler upright, press blue button fully once
  2. Breathe out (away from the inhaler)
  3. Place mouthpiece in your mouth, between teeth and close lips firmly around it
  4. Breathe in forcefully and deeply until your lungs are full, so that the capsule vibrates while you breathe in.
  5. Hold breath for 5-10 seconds, while removing inhaler from mouth
  6. Repeat steps 6-8 but do not pierce the capsule again
  7. Open mouthpiece and tip the used capsule in the garbage and close. Wash hands

Resources

Lung.ca instructional video

How to use your Handihaler

Handihaler Provider Checklist

Knowledge Check

Before proceeding, we suggest that you download the provider checklist above, to review the correct technique steps, so you can answer the module questions which ask you to identify patient or nurse errors in the clips.