Advice to achieve and maintain good control for Children and Young People over 2 years old
If you / your child is:
If your child starts to cough, wheeze or has a tight chest but can continue day to day activities
Keep this plan with you and take it every time you see the doctor or nurse at your GP surgery (or Hospital). This plan is for patients with asthma – your GP/doctor (or nurse) will fill it in and explain the different medicines to control your asthma. It will also show you how to recognise when the asthma or wheeze is getting worse and what to do about it. By taking steps early – acute attacks can usually be prevented.
Choose appropriate sized spacer with mask (or mouthpiece if child is over 3 years with good technique and is not significantly short of breath).
1. Shake the inhaler well and remove cap.
2. Fit the inhaler into the opening at the end of the spacer.
3. Place mask over the child’s face or mouthpiece in their mouth ensuring a good seal
4. Press the inhaler once and allow the child to take 5 slow tidal breaths between each dose
5. Remove the inhaler and shake between every puff. Wait 1 minute between puffs.
Repeat steps 1 – 5 for subsequent doses.
Plastic spacers should be washed before 1st use and every month as per manufacturer’s guidelines.
Click here for videos on inhaler technique.
Commonly Asked Questions:
This guidance is written by healthcare professionals from across Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight.
