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?

"The number of remaining doses will be on the inhaler."

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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