Which statement about spacer use with a metered‑dose inhaler in children is accurate?

Which statement about spacer use with a metered‑dose inhaler in children is accurate?

• A. Spacer with a mask provides similar efficacy to nebulized albuterol
• B. Spacer is not effective in children under 3 years
• C. Spacers reduce medication delivery compared to nebulizers
• D. MDI with spacer is only recommended after age 6

Answer: (A)

Delivering inhaled medication to kids works best when the device reduces the need for precise coordination and maximizes deposition in the lungs. A spacer with a mask does just that for young children who can’t time a puff with inhalation. The mask creates a seal and allows the child to breathe normally, so the aerosol has time to reach the lower airways instead of being lost to the mouth or exhaled away. Because of this, using a metered-dose inhaler with a spacer (especially with a mask for infants and toddlers) can produce bronchodilation similar to nebulized albuterol in many pediatric situations. That’s why this statement is accurate. Spacers are effective in children under 3 when used correctly, and they do not reduce medication delivery compared with nebulizers; they often deliver the dose more efficiently than using an inhaler alone. Also, spacers with masks are not limited to older children; they’re appropriate for younger ages as well, not only after age six.

Delivering inhaled medication to kids works best when the device reduces the need for precise coordination and maximizes deposition in the lungs. A spacer with a mask does just that for young children who can’t time a puff with inhalation. The mask creates a seal and allows the child to breathe normally, so the aerosol has time to reach the lower airways instead of being lost to the mouth or exhaled away. Because of this, using a metered-dose inhaler with a spacer (especially with a mask for infants and toddlers) can produce bronchodilation similar to nebulized albuterol in many pediatric situations. That’s why this statement is accurate.

Spacers are effective in children under 3 when used correctly, and they do not reduce medication delivery compared with nebulizers; they often deliver the dose more efficiently than using an inhaler alone. Also, spacers with masks are not limited to older children; they’re appropriate for younger ages as well, not only after age six.