Inhalation technique of spacers with face masks in asthma. Evaluation in 60 children below four years of age

Spacers with face masks are widely used for the treatment of asthma in youn g children. A poor inhalation technique may compromise the treatment's effi ciency. Methods. - The inhalation technique of spacers with face masks was evaluate d in a prospective study of 60 children below four years of age. A checklis t of 12 items was used, each one being coded by zero or one, and a total sc ore less than or equal to 12 points was calculated. Results, - Mean total score was 8.93 +/- 1.84 (extrems: 6-12). The canister was shaken before use in 48.3% of cases, one puff delivered when the child was breathing in 71.7% and the valve's mobility checked in 85%. The canist er was shaken before the second puff in 13.3% of cases and two consecutive puffs individualized in 28%. Discussion. - The usual mistakes are lacking to shake the canister and cons ecutive puffs' individualization. Medical partners and families education s hould be reinforced. (C) 2001 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.