Using an Inhaler with a Spacer
To control asthma, you need to use your medicines the right way. Some medicines are inhaled using a device called a metered-dose inhaler (MDI). Metered-dose inhalers deliver medicine with a fine spray. You may be asked to use a spacer (holding tube) with your inhaler. The spacer helps make sure all the medicine you need goes into your lungs.
Steps for using an inhaler with a spacer
Step 1:
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Remove the caps from the inhaler and spacer.
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Shake the inhaler well and attach the spacer. If the inhaler is being used for the first time or has not been used for a while, prime it as directed by the product maker.
Step 2:
Step 3:
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Spray 1 puff into the spacer by pressing down on the inhaler.
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Then breathe in through your mouth as slowly and deeply as you can. This should take about 5-10 seconds. If you breathe too quickly, you may hear a whistling sound in certain spacers.
Step 4:
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Take the spacer out of your mouth.
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Hold your breath for a count of 10.
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Then hold your lips together and slowly breathe out through your mouth.
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If you’re prescribed more than 1 puff of medicine at a time, wait at least 30 seconds between puffs. This number may be different for different medicines. Shake the inhaler again. Then repeat steps 2 to 4.
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