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Nasal Aspirator Instructions

A nasal aspirator is commonly used by parents, caretakers and health care professionals to clear a baby or young child's nasal passages. Babies and youngsters often get a stuffy nose when they have a cold or other common childhood illnesses or if they suffer allergies. Babies especially can have a hard time when the nasal passages are congested because they are born only knowing how to breathe through their noses. Additionally, nasal decongestants and other cold medicines are not safe for young children and babies.

  1. How To Use It

    • First, lay your baby on his back. You can lay him on a solid surface such as a changing table or on your lap with his head on your knees. Next, squeeze the bulb on the nasal aspirator to let all the air out and place it in the nostril. Then slowly release your grip on the bulb, allowing it to fill with the mucus that was in the nose. Remove the nasal aspirator from the nose and squeeze it again into a tissue to empty out the contents. Once it is emptied, repeat the process in the other nostril.

    When To Use It

    • With newborns and babies, it's best to use the nasal aspirator immediately before a feeding. Because it can be an unpleasant feeling for her, she may gag or vomit, causing her to spit up what she just ate. And because babies will sometimes struggle or resist when the aspirator is used, it's best not to do it immediately before nap time or bedtime, when they may already be cranky from being tired. Also, avoid using the nasal aspirator more than two or three times each day because it can irritate the lining of the nasal passages.

    Tips

    • It can be helpful to use saline drops along with the nasal aspirator. The drops help lubricate the nasal passages and make it easier to remove the mucus. Simply put one or two saline drops in each nostril and try to keep his head still for 10 to 15 seconds before using the nasal aspirator. However, avoid using saline drops for more than 4 days because long-term use can actually dry out the nose. Also, it can be helpful to allow the baby's head to tip back slightly when using the nasal aspirator because it will be easier to properly place it in the nostril. To do this, place the baby in your lap with his neck on your knees, allowing his head to tip back slightly.

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