Using a Dry-Powder Diskus Inhaler

Step-by-Step

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

    Wash your hands.

  2. Arrow pointing to date on top of inhaler.

    Check the expiration date.

  3. Thumb pushing on thumb grip on side of inhaler.

    Slide the inhaler open.

  4. Thumb pushing on dose release lever on side of inhaler.

    Load the medicine.

  5. Check mark by hand holding inhaler correctly and "no" symbol by hand holding inhaler incorrectly.

    Hold the inhaler level. Don’t shake it.

  6. Person standing straight and person sitting straight in chair.

    Sit or stand up straight.

  7. Person holding inhaler, with head turned aside while breathing in and out.

    Breathe out completely.

  8. Side view of person holding inhaler to their mouth.

    Close your lips tightly on the mouthpiece.

  9. Person holding inhaler to their mouth, inhaling medicine.

    Breathe in quickly and deeply.

  10. Person holding inhaler to their mouth, with clock showing time passing.

    Hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds.

  11. Person holding inhaler, with head turned aside, breathing out through pursed lips.

    Breathe out slowly.

  12. Finger pushing dose release lever back to where it was.

    Reset the inhaler.

  13. Thumb pushing on thumb grip on side of inhaler.

    Slide the inhaler closed.

  14. Person holding a glass of water and swishing water in their mouth.

    Rinse your mouth out.

  15. Person spitting water into sink.

    Spit.

Online Medical Reviewer: Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 7/1/2025
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