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Canberra Health Services
Health Information Sheet | Canberra Health Services

How to use a spacer, mask and puffer

  1. Check puffer is in date and has doses left.
  2. Check the spacer and mask is in good condition, clean and dry.

Everyone should always use a spacer when taking a puffer.

Videos on asthma and spacers

Scan the QR code to view the videos

QR code to navigate fact sheets on asthma video

How to use a spacer with no mask (children over 4 years)

  1. Follow steps 1-3 on the next page.
  2. Place mouthpiece of spacer between the child’s teeth. Make sure the child’s lips close to form a seal.
  3. Follow steps 6-9 on the next page.
Young girl taking an asthma puffer using a spacer.

How to use a spacer with no mask (children over 4 years)

1. Remove puffer cap.

Image of an asthma puffer with no cap.

2. Shake puffer.

Image of an asthma puffer with arrows pointing down and up to indicate shaking of puffer.
  1. Fit the puffer into end of spacer.
  2. Attach mask.
Image showing a mask and puffer correctly attached to a spacer.
  1. Place mask over child’s mouth and nose. Make sure there are no gaps around the edges of the mask.
A child is pictured with an asthma puffer and spacer covering their mouth and nose. An adult is standing out of view to help the child ensure there are no gaps around the edges of the mask.
  1. Press down on the top of the puffer.
  2. Child to take 4 breaths in and out.
Image of a woman administering a puffer to their child using a mask and spacer.
  1. Repeat steps 2-7 for each puff.
  2. Make sure to shake the puffer before each puff.
Image of a woman shaking a puffer before administering the puffer to their child again using a mask and spacer.
canberrahealthservices.act.gov.au