Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

When assisting a patient with an inhaler, what is the first important step?

1. Have the patient hold their breath

2. Have the patient exhale deeply prior to inhaling the medication

3. Encourage the patient to inhale slowly

4. Administer a spacer device

The correct answer is: Have the patient exhale deeply prior to inhaling the medication

Before using an inhaler, it is critical for the patient to exhale deeply. This step helps to clear the airways and ensure that the lungs are ready to receive the medication effectively. By exhaling fully, the patient reduces the residual air that may be present in the lungs, allowing for a more complete inhalation of the medication that follows. This action increases the likelihood that the medication will reach the deeper areas of the lungs where it is most needed. Inhaling medication effectively through an inhaler relies heavily on proper technique, which begins with this preparatory exhalation. It sets up a better environment for the medication to be effective, as it minimizes airway resistance and maximizes the potential for deep lung deposition of the medication. Attempts to hold one's breath after inhalation or encouraging slow inhalation are important components of effective inhaler use, but they follow the essential step of exhalation. Furthermore, using a spacer device can enhance aerosol delivery, but it is not the first action to initiate the proper inhalation process.