During an asthma attack, what should you do before administering an inhaler?

Before administering an inhaler during an asthma attack, shaking the inhaler is an important step to ensure that the medication is properly mixed and aerosolized. This action can help deliver the correct dose of medication that the patient needs to alleviate their symptoms. Inhalers often contain a suspension that must be mixed well to provide the correct dose upon administration.

While assessing for food allergies, encouraging water intake, and checking for a medical bracelet may be relevant in other contexts of patient care, they are not priorities in the immediate management of an asthma attack. The focus should be on quickly delivering the medication to relieve the patient’s acute symptoms and improve their breathing. Shaking the inhaler ensures that the medication is effective, which is crucial in a situation where time is of the essence.