Oral Inhalation Chamber (Spacer Device)
Oral Inhalation Chamber (Spacer Device)
An oral inhalation chamber is a specialized medical device designed to optimize the delivery of aerosolized medications from pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) to pediatric patients.
Key Features
- Available in various volumes (150-750 mL)
- Anti-static materials
- One-way valves
- Universal MDI adapter
- Age-appropriate masks or mouthpieces
- Flow indicators for breathing coordination
Components & Design Features
Essential Components
- Main Chamber
- Transparent housing
- Anti-static lining
- Volume indicators
- Valve System
- Inspiratory valve
- Expiratory valve
- Low resistance design
- Interface Options
- Soft silicone masks (multiple sizes)
- Mouthpiece for older children
- Universal inhaler adapter
- Visual Indicators
- Flow whistles
- Movement indicators
- Valve visualization windows
Design Specifications
- Material composition: Medical-grade polymers
- Valve sensitivity: 2-3 L/min flow
- Dead space minimization
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Impact-resistant construction
Usage Technique & Administration
Pre-Administration Steps
- Device Assembly Check
- Verify valve integrity
- Confirm mask/mouthpiece fit
- Check inhaler compatibility
- Patient Preparation
- Age-appropriate positioning
- Mask size selection
- Breathing pattern instruction
Administration Protocol
- Shake MDI vigorously (10-15 seconds)
- Attach MDI to chamber adapter
- Position mask/mouthpiece correctly
- Actuate one puff into chamber
- Maintain seal for 5-6 breaths
- Wait 30 seconds between puffs
Age-Specific Considerations
- Infants (0-2 years)
- Small mask essential
- Tidal breathing pattern
- Parent-assisted administration
- Toddlers (2-4 years)
- Medium mask or mouthpiece
- Simple breathing instructions
- Visual feedback important
- School-age (>4 years)
- Mouthpiece preferred
- Breath-hold if possible
- Independent use training
Clinical Considerations & Maintenance
Clinical Benefits
- Improved drug delivery (40-60% increase)
- Reduced oropharyngeal deposition
- Better coordination management
- Decreased side effects
- Enhanced treatment efficacy
Patient Education Points
- Proper assembly demonstration
- Cleaning schedule explanation
- Valve function monitoring
- Storage recommendations
- Replacement timeline
Maintenance Protocol
- Weekly Cleaning
- Disassemble completely
- Warm soapy water wash
- Air dry vertically
- No towel drying
- Regular Inspection
- Valve integrity check
- Crack/damage assessment
- Mask elasticity verification
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Poor mask seal: Check size and positioning
- Whistling sound: Verify valve orientation
- Reduced medication effect: Inspect valve function
- Static build-up: Follow antistatic treatment protocol
