The comprehensive toolkit aims to improve pMDI technique and patient outcomes.
The National Asthma Council Australia is stepping up efforts to improve asthma treatment with the launch of a new suite of spacer resources for health professionals.
Designed to boost correct technique with pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs), the new tools include an A3 wall chart, an information sheet, an instructional video and an updated fact sheet for patients and carers.
“Only about one in 10 patients can correctly perform all the steps in using a pMDI and three-quarters of patients using a pMDI make at least one error when using their inhaler,” said pharmacist and NAC clinical executive lead Clinical Associate Professor Debbie Rigby.
The NAC recommends spacers for all children aged under four years; anyone using corticosteroid preventers with a pMDI; patients struggling with “press and breathe” coordination; and anyone using a reliever pMDI for asthma symptoms.
The Spacers for Pressurised Metered-Dose Inhalers Chart is a poster designed to go on the wall of the clinic or pharmacy to help health professionals identify and explain the range of spacers available. It can also be used to start a conversation about the benefits of using a spacer with a pMDI.
The accompanying sheet includes information for health professionals to assist in discussing the benefits of spacers with patients.
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There is also a video providing step-by-step instructions and tips on how to correctly use a spacer with a pMDI, and on how to use a spacer with a mask.
An updated spacer use and care fact sheet can also be used to help explain to patients and carers why a spacer is so important, the types of spacers available, and tips for using and cleaning a spacer and puffer.
“The new suite of resources from the NAC will help health professionals to ensure that every patient prescribed a pMDI knows how to use a spacer and use it when needed or as directed,” said Professor Rigby.
“The spacer helps the medication reach the small airways where it is most needed and this is important for both adults and children.
“The use of a pMDI with a spacer is at least as effective and safe as use of a nebuliser and spacers should be selected individually to fit the pMDI.”
All spacer resources can be download directly from the NAC website and hard copies of the wall chart (A3 size) can be ordered from the National Asthma Council Australia by contacting nac@nationalasthma.org.au
