Aero chambers

Hello, my name is Gemma Farrand, and I'm one of the Special Needs School Nurses for Cambridgeshire Community Services.

Today, I'm going to do a practical demonstration on how to effectively give an inhaler via an Aero chamber or spacer. You should have done the theory behind this online before watching this demonstration. Using the inhaler in the right way will ensure your child or young person is receiving the correct dose of medication and will help them manage their symptoms better.

Firstly, make sure you have the individual's asthma care plan in front of you to refer to. This will give you information such as the triggers, medication details and any specific symptoms and management for that child. Ensure the child or young person is in a comfortable and upright position, as this will allow the lungs to fully inhale the medication. Examine the product, making sure that it's not damaged and is clean and ready to use. Check the expiry date on the inhaler, making sure that it's clearly labelled with the correct details for that child.

Most schools are now keeping spare inhalers and spacers, so these can be used if the inhaler is expired or not available. Remove the cap and shake the inhaler well. Insert the inhaler into the back of the Areo chamber. Apply the mask to the child's face, making sure there's a good, effective seal. If the child uses an Areo chamber with a mouthpiece, then make sure the mouthpiece is fully in the mouth and the lips are sealed around it. Press the inhaler down once and this will administer one dose. Watch the flow valve and count five times or just count five breaths. If the child requires more than one puff, always shake the inhaler again before each administration and wherever possible, the child should be encouraged to give the inhaler themselves if they're able to do so. Lastly, the inhaler can look cloudy. This is where the medication creates a film around the chamber.

They can be washed quite easily. It all comes apart and can either be rinsed under the tap or left to soak in a liquid detergent for 15 minutes and then left to air dry. It can also be placed in a dishwasher on the top shelf and again, left air dry. It's important not to wipe the inside of the Aero chamber as this causes a static effect and all the medication next time it's used will stick to the sides rather than go into the child.

Thank you for watching this demonstration. If you have any questions, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.