What is an effective teaching approach for inhaler technique?

• A. Instruct verbally once
• B. Demonstrate and assume patient understands without feedback
• C. Demonstrate, have the patient perform it, and use teach-back to confirm correct use
• D. Provide a pamphlet only

Answer: (C)

The key concept is interactive, confirm-by-teaching instruction for inhaler use. Demonstrating the correct technique, then having the patient practice it themselves, and using teach-back to verify they can perform it correctly is the most effective approach. Demonstration shows exactly how the device should be used, practice gives the patient hands-on experience, and teach-back lets you confirm understanding and correct any errors in real time. This combination helps ensure the medication is delivered properly, improves adherence, and reduces the risk of poor disease control. Relying on verbal instruction alone misses steps and misunderstanding, while assuming the patient understood after a demonstration, or giving a pamphlet without any feedback, does not confirm mastery or reinforce correct technique.