Experience with a metered-dose inhaler with a spacer in the pediatric emergency department

Am J Dis Child. 1989 Jun;143(6):678-81. doi: 10.1001/archpedi.1989.02150180056020.

Abstract

Studies of adults suggest that metered-dose inhalers with spacers are as effective as hand-held nebulizers for bronchodilator delivery. We studied 13 children with acute asthma. They received two puffs every 2 minutes from metered-dose inhalers with spacers (range, 4 to 14 puffs) titrated until improvement stopped. Peak expiratory flow increased 34% for metered-dose inhalers with spacers after the first 2 puffs and increased 87% for metered-dose inhalers with spacers after dose titration. After titration, respiratory rate decreased by 12%, heart rate increased by 2%, and breath sounds improved in 92% of the patients. We concluded that the metered-dose inhalers with spacers are an effective device for the treatment of asthma in the pediatric emergency department and that the use of metered-dose inhalers with spacers with titration can achieve significant bronchodilation in the treatment of patients with acute asthma.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adolescent
  • Albuterol / administration & dosage
  • Albuterol / therapeutic use
  • Asthma / drug therapy*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Emergency Service, Hospital*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nebulizers and Vaporizers*
  • Oxygen / administration & dosage
  • Peak Expiratory Flow Rate / methods

Substances

  • Albuterol
  • Oxygen