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    Priming Your Metered-Dose Inhaler

    Step-by-Step

    1. Hands scrubbing with soap under faucet with running water.

      Wash your hands.

    2. Hands holding inhaler upright, with canister visible at top of inhaler and arrow pointing to date on canister.

      Check the expiration date.

    3. Hand holding inhaler upright, shaking inhaler up and down, with clock showing time passing.

      Shake your inhaler for 5 seconds.

    4. Hand holding inhaler upright, with other hand removing cap from mouthpiece.

      Take the cap off.

    5. Person holding inhaler upright with one hand, pointing inhaler away from face.

      Point your inhaler away from you.

    6. Hand holding inhaler upright and pointed away, with finger pressing on top of canister to spray medicine.

      Press down on the top three times.

    7. Hand holding inhaler upright, no cap on mouthpiece.

      Now your inhaler is ready to use.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Chris Southard RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Rajadurai Samnishanth Researcher
    Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
    Date Last Reviewed: 8/1/2024
    © 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center
    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

    Copyright © The StayWell Company, LLC. except where otherwise noted.
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