Using an E-Z Spacer® for Your Inhaled Medication

Many medications are available as inhaled treatments. Inhaled methods deliver medication directly to the airway, which is helpful for lung diseases. The patient and healthcare provider can choose from a variety of delivery systems for inhaling medication.

The metered dose inhaler (MDI) consists of a pressurized canister of medication in a plastic case with a mouthpiece. The E-Z Spacer® spacer consists of a collapsible plastic bag with a mouthpiece. A spacer assists delivery of medication to the small airways. This increases the medication's effectiveness. Its portable size, efficiency and convenience make the MDI a desirable method for inhalation treatment.

The following steps outline the best method to use the E-Z Spacer®:

How To Assemble the E-Z Spacer®:
Taking an Inhaled Treatment:
Cleaning and Care For the E-Z Spacer®

How To Assemble the E-Z Spacer®:

1. Pull open the handle on top of the collapsible plastic bag. Pull down and twist the reservoir bag gently to open the bag fully.
   
2. Push in the bar on the top, to extend the mouthpiece.
   
3. Check for foreign objects or tears in the plastic bag. If a tear is present, replace the E-Z Spacer®.
4. Remove the inhaler from the manufacturer's plastic case.
5. Shake the inhaler. This mixes the medication properly.
6. Fit the inhaler into the hole next to the handle.

Taking an Inhaled Treatment:

1. Place one thumb under each arm of the handle. Place your index fingers on the top of the canister. Another person can assist if the you or your child are having difficulty.
   
2. Gently breathe out.
3. Put the mouthpiece in your mouth between your teeth and close your lips around it.
4. Press the inhaler once. The medication will be delivered into the bag.
5. Breathe in slowly and deeply over 3-5 seconds. The bag will collapse.
6. Hold your breath for up to ten seconds. This allows the medication time to deposit in the airways.
7. Resume normal breathing.
8. Repeat steps 1-7 when more than one puff is prescribed.
9. Keep the E-Z Spacer® closed when not in use. Remove the canister and pull the bar to retract the mouthpiece. Close the E-Z Spacer® by holding the bottom and rotating the top together.

Cleaning and Care For the E-Z Spacer®:

1. Clean the E-Z Spacer® by hand at least once a week. The E-Z Spacer® is not dishwasher safe.
2. Remove the bottom plate of the spacer by using your fingernail or twisting a coin in the slot.
   
3. Pull open the handle and push the bar to extend the mouthpiece. Pull down and twist the reservoir bag gently.
4. Immerse the spacer and end plate in a basin with water and mild detergent.
5. Clean the inside, outside and end plate.
6. Rinse the spacer and end plate in fresh water.
7. Shake off any excess water.
8. Air dry on a clean towel and wait until it is dry before storing. The E-Z Spacer® should not be stored near heat.

Remember, a prescription is required to get an E-Z Spacer®.

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This information has been approved by Ann Mullen, R.N., M.S., AE-C  and David Tinkelman, M.D. (February 2006).