What is the proper process for assisting a patient with an inhaler?

The proper process for assisting a patient with an inhaler involves ensuring that the patient is sitting upright, shaking the inhaler, having the patient exhale to empty their lungs, spraying the inhaler as they take a deep breath, and finally instructing them to hold their breath for a few seconds.

This method is effective because sitting upright helps to open the airways and allows for better airflow when the medication is inhaled. Shaking the inhaler is crucial as it ensures that the medication is properly mixed and ready for delivery. By having the patient exhale before inhaling, their lungs are cleared, making more space for the medication. Spraying the inhaler during a deep inhalation maximizes the amount of medication that reaches the lungs, where it is needed. Holding the breath afterward allows the medication to settle in the airways, enhancing its effectiveness.

The other options fail to provide an appropriate or effective method for using an inhaler. For instance, lying down can constrict airflow and hinder the inhalation process. Simply spraying the inhaler into the air doesn’t deliver any medication to the patient, compromising its intended use. Additionally, instructing the patient to breathe in deeply before using the inhaler does not align with the correct sequence