How to Use an Inhaler With a Spacer and Mask

1. If your child's spacer has two pieces, put them together, after removing the spacer's cap.

2. Shake the inhaler for five seconds to mix the medicine and ensure a reliable dose.

3. Remove the inhaler's cap; insert the mouthpiece into the front end of the spacer.

4. Place the spacer's mask over your child's face; if an older child isn't using a mask, put the spacer's mouthpiece directly in his mouth.

5. Press the mask firmly over his nose and mouth, ensuring a good seal. (If not using a mask, a kid's lips should seal around the spacer's mouthpiece.)

6. Place one hand over the inhaler, ready to press down on the canister; use your other hand to hold the spacer's mask against your child's face.

7. Have your child exhale deeply before you release the medicine.

8. Push down on the inhaler canister one time with your index finger.

9. Have your child take six deep, slow breaths in order to get all the medicine into his lungs.

10. Leave the mask on; wait 30 seconds before a second puff (the usual dose for a rescue inhaler).

Source: Marina Reznik, M.D, M.S, a physician at the Children's Hospital at Montefiore in Bronx, New York,

Originally published in the May 2015 issue of Parents magazine.

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