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Paediatric inhaler device selection — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyPatient CounsellingPaediatric inhaler device selectionGPhC CRA

A 6-year-old child is brought to the pharmacy by her mother. The child has been prescribed a salbutamol 100 microgram pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI). The mother asks if she needs anything else to use with it. What is the most appropriate advice?

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Correct answer: D — A spacer device should be used with the pMDI for optimal drug delivery in a child of this age

BTS/SIGN guidelines recommend that children under 12 years using a pMDI should use it with a spacer device. A spacer improves drug delivery to the lungs, reduces oropharyngeal deposition, and eliminates the need for coordinated actuation and inspiration. Nebulisers are reserved for acute settings. DPIs require a sufficient inspiratory effort which may be inconsistent in young children.

Reference: BTS/SIGN Guideline 158; BNF