Abstract

Aerosols are often the rst choice of treatment for many respiratory diseases. Inhalers are used for the application of aerosol drugs. There are several types of inhalers, such as pressurized metered dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers and nebulizers. These differ, depending on the effectiveness of the delivering particles to the lung and the nal dose or drug deposition in the lungs. This is due to many factors, such as characteristics of the inhaler, the particle size of the aerosol, properties of the drug and the condition of the patient, such as the disease state, the breathing pattern and inhalation technique. Education of children and adolescents and their parents about the handling of inhalers and the inhalation technique is crucial for achieving treatment effectiveness. Particular emphasis is placed on prevention of transmission of microorganisms and other unwanted contaminants, such as dust particles and allergens from the home environment.

Key words: aerosol, inhaler, education, infection control.