How to use your Spiriva HandiHaler

Summary

Pharmacist Tarsha from Auckland City Hospital demonstrates how to use the Spiriva HandiHaler. She explains the steps to open the device, load a capsule, and inhale the medication properly. The video also covers how to clean the device and when to seek a new one, emphasizing the importance of correct usage for effective treatment.

Takeaways

• 💊 'To open the Spiriva HandiHaler, press the green button on the side to release the cap.'
• 🌿 'Lift the lid to reveal the mouthpiece and pull on it to expose the capsule chamber.'
• 🔗 'Each Spiriva strip has five capsules, and one is needed per dose.'
• 📛 'Peel back the silver protective foil to release one capsule from the strip.'
• 🔄 'Place the capsule into the capsule chamber and close the mouthpiece until it clicks.'
• 💉 'Press the green button again to pierce the capsule, preparing it for inhalation.'
• 💨 'Inhale the dose by sitting upright, breathing out, placing lips around the mouthpiece, and inhaling rapidly and deeply.'
• 🕒 'Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds after inhaling, then breathe out through your mouth.'
• 🌀 'Two breaths are required for one capsule to ensure the full dose is taken.'
• 🗑️ 'After use, open the mouthpiece, discard the capsule, close the mouthpiece, and lid.'
• 🚿 'Do not wash the HandiHaler in water; clean it with a dry cloth if necessary.'

Q & A

What is the purpose of the Spiriva HandiHaler?

The Spiriva HandiHaler is a device used for inhaling medication, specifically Spiriva capsules, to help with respiratory conditions.

How do you open the Spiriva HandiHaler?

To open the device, press the green button on the side, which will open the cap.

What is the first step after opening the cap of the HandiHaler?

After opening the cap, lift the lid to reveal the mouthpiece.

How many capsules does each Spiriva strip contain?

Each Spiriva strip contains five capsules.

How do you release a capsule from the foil strip?

To release a capsule, peel back the silver protective foil and then release one capsule.

What should you do with the released Spiriva capsule?

Place the released Spiriva capsule into the capsule chamber of the HandiHaler.

What sound indicates that the mouthpiece is properly closed?

You should hear a click sound when the mouthpiece is closed properly.

How do you pierce the capsule in the HandiHaler?

Pierce the capsule by pressing the green button on the device.

What is the correct posture for inhaling the dose from the HandiHaler?

You should sit upright and breathe out away from the device before inhaling.

How long should you hold your breath after inhaling the dose?

You should hold your breath for up to 10 seconds after inhaling the dose.

How many breaths are required to get the entire dose from one capsule?

You will need to take two breaths to get your entire dose from one capsule.

What should you do with the used capsule after inhaling?

Open the mouthpiece, discard the used capsule in the rubbish bin, and then close the mouthpiece.

How should you clean the HandiHaler if it gets dirty?

Never wash the HandiHaler in water. If it is dirty, use a dry cloth to wipe it clean.

Who should you contact if you need a new HandiHaler device?

You can ask your doctor or pharmacist if you need a new device, and they will be able to help you get one.