"Spacer" is the clinical term referring to all types of add-on holding devices that attach to metered dose inhalers, or MDIs, to assist the user in releasing and inhaling the medication. These devices fall within two categories, a spacer or a holding chamber, based on their design. These devices add space and volume between the MDI and the mouth. After actuating the inhaler, a spacer or holding chamber “holds” the medication in suspension in order to allow the user time to inhale the aerosol into the lungs, providing greater deposition into the airway.
Step 1
Remove the metal canister from the plastic actuator. Warm the canister to body temperature by holding it for 2 to 3 minutes. Place the canister back into the plastic actuator.
Step 2
Remove the mouthpiece cap from the metered dose inhaler. If this is the first dose from the inhaler, or if the inhaler has not been used for 7 or more days, prime the inhaler by pointing it away from the face and depressing the canister in the actuator, allowing the medication to spray into the air. This process “loads” the medication into the MDI's release chamber, assuring that a full dose is available.
Step 3
Remove the cap from the spacer mouthpiece. Insert the metered dose inhaler mouthpiece into the flexible rubber gasket on the open end of the spacer, on the opposite side of the spacer mouthpiece.
Step 4
Exhale completely. Place the spacer mouthpiece between the teeth and seal the lips tightly around it. Press down on the canister once, allowing the medication to spray into the spacer. Inhale slowing and deeply. If the spacer makes a whistling noise, breathe in more gently until the spacer no longer makes noise.
Step 5
Hold the medication in the lungs for a minimum of 10 seconds to allow it to get into the airway and lungs. If the prescription calls for a second or third puff, wait at least 1 minute before taking the next dose.
Step 6
Wipe off the mouthpiece before replacing the cap. Store the spacer and metered dose inhaler in a cool, dry place.
Tips and Warnings
- Each metered dose inhaler provides a certain number of puffs that will be stated on the box the inhaler comes in. Keep a record of how many times the inhaler is used, and order a new inhaler before the old one is empty. Discard the used inhaler after the stated number of puffs. The canister may still have medication, but it may not be enough to release a full dose. A Proventil or Ventolin inhaler, for example, contains 200 puffs per canister. If the user takes two puffs, four times a day, that equals to eight puffs per day. At 200 puffs, the inhaler will have enough medication to last for 25 days.
- Keep all medications out of the reach of children. Read the medication insert found in the inhaler package. Review possible side effects, usage instructions, dose and any other pertinent information. If this is the first time using a metered dose inhaler, consult with the prescribing physician for instructions on how to use the device.
Things You'll Need
- Metered dose inhaler
- Medication insert
- Spacer or holding chamber
