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Nebulizer Treatment

A nebulizer is a devise used to deliver medications used to treat asthma and sometimes emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. A nebulizer creates a mist containing the prescribed medication, which is then breathed in by the patient. People with asthma have blocked and constricted airways, which can cause coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Nebulizers are often the used to administer asthma medications to young children because they are easier to use than an inhaler for many kids. In fact, inhalers aren't generally recommended for use until a child is about 6 years old.

  1. Loading Medication

    • Before using a nebulizer, you will need to load the medication into the nebulizer cup. It's a good idea to wash your hands before doing this. If you are using medication from a bottle containing multiple doses, fill the dropper with the correct dose and place it in the cup with the correct amount of saline solution. More commonly, medication administered via nebulizer will come in single-dose vials. To use these, remove one from the pack, open it and place it in the cup. Once the medication is in the cup, place the top back on.

    Using the Nebulizer

    • Once the medication is loaded into the cup, you'll need to connect the cup to the nebulizer with the provided tubing. Next, you'll have toconnect the plastic mouthpiece or the face mask to the machine so the medication can be delivered. Patients using a mouthpiece should hold it near the mouth and nose so they receive the medication. Those who use the face mask should place it over the mouth and nose. Once in place, turn the machine on. A breathing treatment should take five to 10 minutes to administer. Make sure to keep the nebulizer on until no more mist is coming from it.

    Care and Maintenance

    • The medicine cup and the mouthpiece or face mask need to be washed after every use. Simply use dish soap and then rinse then under hot water. Shake off excess water and allow each of the pieces to air dry. In addition to washing it after each use, the cup and mask or mouthpiece should be disinfected about three times a week to prevent bacteria growth. To disinfect, place the pieces in diluted white vinegar or another disinfecting solution, and allow them to air dry.

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