Table 6. HandiHaler suggested checklist and common errors

Suggested checklist of steps 

1. Open cap
 2. Open mouthpiece
 3. Remove capsule from blister and place in chamber
 4. Close mouthpiece until it clicks
 5. Press green piercing button in once and release
 6. Breathe out gently away from mouthpiece
 7. Put mouthpiece between teeth without biting and close lips to form good seal
 8. Breathe in slowly and deeply, so capsule vibrates
 9. Continue to breathe in as long as comfortable
 10. While holding breath, remove inhaler from mouth
 11. Breathe out gently away from mouthpiece
 12. Put mouthpiece back between teeth without biting and close lips to form good seal
 13. Breathe in slowly and deeply, so capsule vibrates
 14. Continue to breathe in as long as comfortable
 15. While holding breath, remove inhaler from mouth
 16. Breathe out gently away from mouthpiece
 17. Open mouthpiece and remove used capsule
 18. If an extra dose is needed, repeat steps 3 to 17
 19. Close mouthpiece and cap

Problems and common errors 

• Not piercing capsule or, conversely, piercing capsule multiple times
• Not using a new capsule for each dose
• Failure to breathe in deeply and with enough force to deliver medication
• Not taking second breath to receive full dose from capsule

Tips

• When dispensing a new device to a patient with weak hands, work the cover back and forth several times to loosen up (may not be an issue with the latest model)
• Always close the inhaler after use

Figure 6. HandiHaler showing new capsule being loaded.

Content Updated November 2008