Before assisting a patient with COPD in self-administering their inhaler, you should:

The most appropriate action before assisting a patient with COPD in self-administering their inhaler is to shake the inhaler vigorously. This is essential because many metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) contain propellants and require proper mixing to ensure that the medication is evenly distributed and effectively delivered when the patient inhales. Shaking the inhaler mixes the medication and propellant, which maximizes the therapeutic effects of the medication during administration.

While checking the expiration date and ensuring the right type of medication, such as a bronchodilator, are important considerations, they do not directly impact the immediate administration process as effectively as ensuring the medication is properly prepared for delivery. Providing supplemental oxygen may be necessary for some patients with COPD, but it is not a prerequisite for administering their inhaler. Overall, shaking the inhaler is a crucial step in preparing it for effective use.