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← Respiratory Medicine / 4th Year / MBBS

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Metered-dose inhaler

Recognise a metered-dose inhaler and explain why device-specific technique matters.

REFERENCE GALLERY1 / 1 reference
inhaler — reference view
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1
Mouthpiece outlet

The outlet through which the aerosol is discharged in this close-up.

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inhaler — reference view

Image: Wikip2011 · Source / original · CC BY-SA 3.0

Resized and converted to WebP; original colours retained.

Metered-dose inhaler

Identify and explain

A metering system releases an aerosol dose; successful delivery depends on the specific device and technique.

  • Medicine canister within an actuator
  • Mouthpiece for delivery
  • Cap or protective cover
1

Identify

Read medicine, strength, device type and expiry on the actual label.

2

Demonstrate

Use a training device and the manufacturer’s instructions; assess coordination and spacer suitability.

3

Check understanding

Ask for a return demonstration and explain cleaning or storage as directed.

At the viva table

Try answering aloud, then open the suggested answer. Examiner questions vary.

01 / Are all inhalers operated the same way?

No. Dry-powder, soft-mist and metered-dose devices differ.

02 / What is a spacer?

An accessory chamber used with compatible inhalers to support delivery.

03 / Why ask for a return demonstration?

It reveals technique problems more reliably than asking whether instructions were understood.

04 / Does the device shape identify the drug?

No. Always read the actual medicine label.

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