Metered dose inhaler with a spacer and a mask (1892)

Key points below

Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI)

Commonly called a pump or puffer

When the inhaler is pumped, it gives just the right amount of medicine with each pump.
A spacer should always be used when taking this medicine.
An inhaler can travel with you when you leave home.

Spacers are always used with metered dose inhalers. It helps slow down the speed of the medicine so it can get into the lungs and not to other parts of the body.

1892 Preparing a MDI with a spacer and mask

Using an inhaler with a spacer and a mask:

1. Gently put the mask over the child's nose and mouth. Lightly press the mask against the face so no air can escape. A good seal is needed for the medicine to get into the lungs.

2. Squeeze one puff of the inhaler into the spacer.

3. Keep the mask on the child's face and watch the child breathe for 6 to 10 breaths.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 4 for every puff taken.

1892 Inhaler with space mask

How to clean a spacer:

Remove the inhaler from the spacer.
If possible, take the pieces of the spacer apart.
Soak (do not scrub) the pieces of the spacer in warm soapy water for 10 minutes.
Rinse the spacer with warm water to remove any leftover soap.
Let all the parts dry completely before putting the spacer back together.

Special instructions:

One spacer can be used for all of your metered dose inhalers. You do not need a separate spacer for each inhaler.
A spacer should last at least 1 year.

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.