MDI + Spacer
MDI + Spacer
Checklist of steps
Common problems
Source
National Asthma Council Australia 2013
Checklist of steps
- Assemble spacer
- Remove inhaler cap
- Hold inhaler upright and shake well
- Insert inhaler upright into spacer
- Put mouthpiece between teeth without biting and close lips to form good seal
- Breathe out gently
- Hold spacer level and press down firmly on canister once
- Breathe in slowly and deeply/ 3-4 deep breaths in and out
- Hold breath for about 10 seconds or as long as comfortable
- While holding breath, remove spacer from mouth
- Breathe out gently away from mouthpiece
- Remove inhaler from spacer
- If an extra dose is needed, wait 1 minute and then repeat steps 3 to 12
- Replace cap and disassemble spacer
Common problems
- Not breathing in quickly enough after pressing the canister, so the medication falls to the bottom of the spacer
- Not breathing in deeply enough
- Not holding breath for long enough
- Taking several puffs without waiting or shaking the inhaler in between
- Looking after your spacer properly helps the medication get to your lungs better, as it doesn't stick to the sides or get clogged in the valve
- Using a spacer can help reduce the chance of side-effects like hoarse throat and thrush
- Ask your pharmacist about a facemask if your child can't seal their lips around the spacer mouthpiece properly
- Clean your spacer before you use it for the first time and then about once a month
- It's normal for your spacer to look a bit cloudy
- Wash your spacer in warm water with kitchen detergent and allow to air dry without rinsing
- Drying with a cloth or paper towel can result in electrostatic charge (‘static') on the inside of the spacer, which make the medication stick to the sides
- Wipe the mouthpiece clean of detergent before use
- Spacers should be checked by your doctor, pharmacist or nurse every 6-12 months to check the structure is intact (e.g. no cracks) and the valve is working.
Source
National Asthma Council Australia 2013