The Instructions for a Nebulizer

A nebulizer is a small machine that vaporizes liquid medications so that you can inhale them into your lungs. Doctors recommend home nebulizers to treat respiratory conditions that do not require treatment in a hospital setting. If your doctor prescribes you a nebulizer, as well as a respiratory medication, for home use, understanding how to use the device is important, and it can make a differences in your treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Air compressor and tubing
• Nebulizer mouthpiece or mask
• Nebulizer cup
• Prescribed respiratory medication

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands. It is important to wash your hands before handling any medical device. However, because there are components of the nebulizer that you will place over or in your mouth, washing your hands before manipulating them is essential.

• 2

  Place the air compressor component of the nebulizer on a flat sturdy surface where it will not be disturbed during your treatment. Plug it in to the nearest electrical outlet.

• 3

  Measure your medications as indicated by your doctor, and place them in the nebulizer cup. Usually, medication comes predosed from your pharmacy, and measurement is not required. But if your doctor prescribes a dose that you must measure out, be sure to use a clean measuring device to avoid contamination.

• 4

  Attach the nebulizer cup to the mouthpiece or mask, whichever is easier for you to use. A nebulizer mouthpiece is a device, from which you will breath the aerosolized medication, that goes directly into your mouth. You place a nebulizer mask over your mouth.

• 5

  Attach the tubing provided with your nebulizer to both the air compressor and the nebulizer base. Make sure that the connections are snug; otherwise, your medication may not properly vaporize.

• 6

  Turn on the air compressor. You will know that the device is working correctly when you see what appears to be steam coming from the mouthpiece or mask.

• 7

  Place the mouthpiece between your teeth, and seal your lips around it. If you are using a mask, fit the mask securely over your mouth.

• 8

  Breathe slowly and deeply until all of the medication in the cup has been nebulized. If possible, after inhaling the medication, hold your breath for two to three seconds.

• 9

  Clean the mouthpiece or mask, as well as the nebulizer cup, thoroughly. This will ensure that your nebulizer is ready to go for your next treatment.