Learning outcomes

After completing this module, you will know:

• How patients should use metered dose inhalers (MDIs), and MDIs plus spacers
• How patients should use dry powder inhalers (DPIs)
• How patients should use soft mist inhalers
• Ways of interacting with patients when teaching and checking inhaler technique.

Editor’s note: COVID-19 information

Several UK bodies have released specific guidance in relation to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and patients with asthma or COPD. They will update their recommendations as the knowledge base and expert experience develop:

• NICE: COVID-19 rapid guideline: severe asthma
• The Primary Care Respiratory Society: COVID-19 Information for primary, community and integrated care teams
• British Thoracic Society: COVID-19: information for the respiratory community
• Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health: COVID-19 - guidance for paediatric services

The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) has also released a statement relating to the COVID-19 pandemic and patients with asthma.

And the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) has released a statement relating to the COVID-19 pandemic and patients with COPD.