Video narration
You know to press, but cleaning the inhaler or timing a puff with your child's breath can feel uncertain. Follow your specific device instructions and your child's care plan; cleaning, priming, and use differ. Check the mouthpiece is clear. Shake the metered-dose inhaler, or MDI, as directed. Clean the plastic holder only as instructed; never wash the metal canister. If advised, attach a spacer-a tube that holds the puff-as directed. Give one puff at a time. With a mask, help a young child breathe normally through it, following its instructions. An older child using the mouthpiece should breathe in slowly as you press, then hold their breath if able. After an inhaled steroid, follow the prescription on rinsing their mouth. Use the action plan; get urgent help for severe breathing trouble or if the prescribed reliever isn't helping. Stay calm; let the care plan guide each dose.