An inhaler is a handheld device used to administer medication directly to the lungs. Children with respiratory conditions such as asthma are often prescribed an inhaler
either to prevent symptoms or to be used in the event of an acute attack.
To be effective, an inhaler must be used properly. When used incorrectly, the medication may not get into the lungs, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. Young children, especially, may need help from their parents when using an inhaler. Your child's pediatrician can instruct you on how to use it properly.
Step 1
Remove cap from the end of the inhaler's mouthpiece.
Step 2
Shake the inhaler vigorously for a few second so the contents are well mixed.
Step 3
Instruct your child to breathe out deeply to empty the lungs.
Step 4
Place the mouthpiece of the inhaler in your child's mouth. It should be between the teeth, and your child should tightly close his lips around it, MedlinePlus advises.
Step 5
Instruct your child to begin breathing in.
Step 6
Depress the inhaler canister at the same time your child begins inhaling, the Cleveland Clinic recommends.
Step 7
Instruct your child to hold her breath for 10 seconds so the medication is able to work its way into the airways.
Step 8
Repeat Steps 4 to 7 for each puff prescribed by your child's doctor. The Cleveland Clinic advises waiting about one minute between puffs.
Step 9
Replace the cap on the inhaler mouthpiece.
Tips and Warnings
- If your child's inhaler is used with either a spacer or a valved chamber, it should be placed in the mouth or fit tightly over the mouth and nose before the medicine is administered, according to the Cleveland Clinic. If your child's inhaler is a corticosteroid medication, give him a a glass of water to rinse his mouth and gargle with after each use, MedlinePlus advises. Inhalers should be cleaned about once a week, according to the Cleveland Clinic. To clean it, remove the canister of medication from the plastic holder and mouthpiece and run the plastic piece in warm water. Allow it to air dry. Spacers and valved chambers can be rinsed in warm water as well. If your inhaler does not have a removable canister, simply wipe down the plastic with a cotton swab or small cloth.
