How to Use an Infant Albuterol Inhaler

Asthma is a chronic allergic condition that affects many people and typically manifests itself early in life, even during infancy. For infants who suffer from asthma, many doctors will prescribe the use of an Albuterol "rescue" inhaler. This inhaler will deliver a chemical that helps relax the airways, allowing for easier respiration for the affected infant. Because these inhalers are designed for infants, their parents or other guardian will need to know under what circumstances to use the inhaler as well as its proper use.

Instructions

1. Listen to your infant's breathing. If the infant is audibly wheezing or is breathing abnormally quickly, he or she may need use of the Albuterol inhaler.

2. Place the mouthpiece in the infants mouth. Don't push it too far back as you will only cause discomfort for the infant. Making the infant anxious will only exacerbate the symptoms. On the other hand, you want the mouth piece of the inhaler to extend to the back of the mouth, so that the Albuterol is able to go down the trachea.

3. Press the bulb or button. Depending on the type of Albuterol inhaler, the opposite end will either have a small bulb or a button to push. Press this and hold it down for 2 or 3 seconds to ensure a full dose.

4. Wait at least 5 seconds between doses. Do not give more than 3 doses at a time.

5. Keep a record of when you use the inhaler. Keeping a short diary of how often you use the inhaler, and at what time you had to use it can help let you know if you are using it with increasing frequency (which may indicate that you need another medicine) or help you identify situations that exacerbate the asthma.