A spacer device is a tube attached to an inhaler to improve aerosol therapy.
Inhalers are frequently misused, one reason for which is that it is necessary to coordinate the discharge from the inhaler and the breath.
The spacer device is a plastic or metal tube that attaches to the inhaler at one end. The other end has a mouthpiece with or without a one-way valve that prevents breathing into the tube.
Proper use:
(1) the spacer and inhaler are matched and cannot be interchanged
(2) the patient should inhale from the chamber as soon as possible after each actuation (within 30 seconds)
(3) the chamber should be emptied by single large breaths or by tidal breathing
Proper care:
(1) the chamber should be cleaned with soap and water at least monthly and left to air dry
(2) the mouthpiece should be wiped free of any detergent
(3) the spacer should be replaced every 6-12 months
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