Using an AeroChamber with a Mask

This device is called an AeroChamber with a mask. The AeroChamber is a type of holding chamber. A holding chamber is often used with a metered-dose inhaler. It can be difficult to use a metered-dose inhaler correctly, especially for very young children.

The AeroChamber with a mask is helpful for young children, who can't yet inhale the medication and hold their breath. The metered-dose inhaler often needs to be primed before using the first dose. Priming is spraying a number of doses into the air. Check the package insert that comes with the Inhaler, to see how to prime the inhaler.

When you're ready to take a dose of medication, remove the cap from the Inhaler, look for foreign objects in the Inhaler as well in the AeroChamber. Put the inhaler mouthpiece into the wider rubber-sealed end of the AeroChamber. Check the Inhaler and AeroChamber well. Hold the mask to the child's face, so that both the nose and the mouth are covered. Press the inhaler once and watch the child breathe in and out six times.

The Mask has an exhalation valve that is colorful. This moves as a child breathes in and out. This is often helpful to watch to count the six breaths. Repeat for each dose, you've been told to take.

Clean the AeroChamber weekly, to clean the AeroChamber take the rubber-sealed end and the mask mouthpiece of the AeroChamber. Soak the pieces in warm water with liquid detergent, move the pieces gently in the water, do not put the AeroChamber in the dish washer.

Rinse the pieces in clean water and shake off the excess water. Air dry all of the pieces, standing up until they are completely dry. Do not rub the inside of the AeroChamber. Replace the back rubber piece and the mask mouthpiece. Check the package insert to find out to how to clean the metered-dose inhaler.

This varies depending on the medication in the metered-dose inhaler. Keep the cap on the Inhaler after each use to help it stay clean.

National Jewish Health has been ranked by the US News & World Report as the number one Respiratory Hospital in the nation for 11 years in a row. Find out more, at njhealth.org.