A newly diagnosed asthmatic is being instructed on proper use of a metered dose inhaler. The patient asks how he will know when the canister is empty. How should the nurse respond?

Explanation

• Newer inhalers usually have a dose counter on them.

• Incorrect: Shaking the canister or counting each dose are not reliable methods.

• Incorrect: Placing the inhaler in water is not recommended due to effects on medication integrity.

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