Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 21, 2026
07:28
Dry Powder and Nebulized Aerosol Inhalation of Pharmaceuticals Delivered to Mice Using a Nose-only Exposure System
Published on: April 6, 2017
41.7K
Enhancing Asthma Medication Delivery: Spacers and Valved Holding Chambers
Sally Schoessler1, Tonya Winders2
1Director of Education, Allergy & Asthma Network, Vienna, VA.
NASN School Nurse (Print)
|May 20, 2016
Summary
School nurses manage asthma with metered dose inhalers (MDIs). Using spacers or valved holding chambers improves MDI technique, especially for children, enhancing asthma care in schools.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- School Nursing
- Respiratory Therapy
Background:
- Asthma is a common chronic illness in children managed in schools.
- Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) are frequently used for asthma treatment.
- Proper MDI technique is crucial for effective medication delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the rationale for using spacers and valved holding chambers with MDIs.
- To discuss the implications of using these devices in the school setting.
- To provide guidance for school nurses on optimal MDI use.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on MDI use, spacers, and valved holding chambers.
- Analysis of factors influencing MDI technique in pediatric populations.
- Examination of the school environment's impact on asthma management.
Main Results:
- Spacers and valved holding chambers significantly improve MDI technique by simplifying coordination and reducing impaction.
- These devices are particularly beneficial for pediatric patients who struggle with MDI actuation and inhalation.
- Implementation in schools can lead to more consistent and effective bronchodilator delivery.
Conclusions:
- Spacers and valved holding chambers are essential adjuncts for MDI use in schools.
- Their use enhances medication adherence and therapeutic outcomes for students with asthma.
- School nurses should be trained and equipped to utilize these devices for optimal patient care.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Inhaled Medications
970
Inhaled medications are crucial for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. They are essential for effective treatment and control, ensuring optimal respiratory health and well-being. Inhaled medication delivers drugs directly to the lungs, providing a rapid onset of action and reducing systemic side effects compared to oral or injectable medications. Three primary types of inhalation devices are used to administer these medications: nebulizers, metered-dose inhalers...
970
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
3.3K
The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
3.3K
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
2.3K
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition for which new therapeutic avenues, including anti-inflammatory drugs like mast cell stabilizers and anti-IgE treatments, continue to be developed.
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
2.3K
01:30Asthma-IV: Nursing Management
4.0K
The nursing management of asthma is a comprehensive approach that relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of healthcare professionals. It involves thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, strategic planning, effective implementation, and diligent evaluation. By meticulously following this step-by-step process, healthcare professionals play a crucial role in providing the best possible care and treatment for patients with asthma, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
First, in...
First, in...
4.0K
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: β2-Adrenoceptor Agonists
2.0K
Bronchodilators are critical in managing asthma, a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway constriction due to inflammation and hyper-reactivity. Specifically, bronchodilators ease this constriction by relaxing the bronchial muscles, facilitating easier breathing.
One class of bronchodilators includes β2-adrenoceptor agonists. These agents target the β2-adrenoceptors located on bronchial smooth muscle cells. By stimulating these receptors, β2-agonists induce...
One class of bronchodilators includes β2-adrenoceptor agonists. These agents target the β2-adrenoceptors located on bronchial smooth muscle cells. By stimulating these receptors, β2-agonists induce...
2.0K
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
1.7K
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
1.7K