How to use Adult Spacers

What are spacers?

A spacer acts as a mouthpiece and is used to connect an inhaler to the face of the patient.



On one side it has a small opening that fits into the mouthpiece of an inhaler, on the other side there is a wide opening that fits over the face of the patient covering the mouth and nose.



There are additional openings on the side that permit re-breathing.

Why are spacers used?

Spacers improve the delivery of the drug contained in the inhaler aerosol, thus reducing the overall number of puffs required to achieve a clinical effect.

How are spacers used?

1. Ensure both the inhaler and the spacer openings are clean and clear (no foreign bodies).
   
2. Connect the small opening of the spacer to the mouthpiece of the inhaler.
   
3. Press the large opening of the spacer onto the face so it covers the mouth and nose, apply tightly to the skin so a seal is formed preventing the inhalant from escaping from the sides.
    
4. Let the patient breathe through the device to familiarize themselves with the device.
   
5. Press the canister of the inhaler downwards, this will release the aerosol into the space in front of the mouth and nose, the patient does not have to time their breathing with the inhaler, the aerosol will remain suspended inside the spacer and the patient can inhale it at their leisure.
   
6. After you feel all of the aerosol has been inhaled by the patient, remove the spacer, separate it from the inhaler, clean it and store in a clean place.
   
7. If a steroid inhaler is used, the patient should wash their mouth to remove any residue of steroid that might have deposited on the walls of the mouth.