Nebulizer Protocols

Nebulizers deliver medication to the lungs. Conditions that call for such treatment include severe asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, croup, pneumonia, respiratory infections, emphysema, and pulmonary fibrosis. A lay person or patient can operate the nebulizer at home. They receive training on the protocols which are outlined in instruction booklets that accompany the equipment.

Nebulizers

• Set up the unit in a place that will be comfortable. Do not set the equipment on an unsecured table or chair that can be tipped over.

  The unit will come with various parts including the air compressor, hose, medicine cup and mouthpiece.

  Always wash hands before touching equipment.

  Connect the hose to the air compressor. Fill the medicine cup with the appropriate dosage according to your prescription. Attach the mouthpiece and the hose to the medicine cup. Turn on the machine and place the mouthpiece into your mouth. Breath normally through you mouth. Do not breathe through your nose. If it is a problem, use nose clips.

  Masks are better for children to manipulate.

  Treatments last approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

  Wash the equipment between uses with soap and water and air dry. This includes the mouthpiece and medicine cup.

  Opened sterile water containers should be discarded after 24 hours.

Cystic Fibrosis Protocol

• Cystic fibrosis patients must be careful to assure the nebulizer equipment is germ free. Most cystic fibrosis deaths occur from lung infections; 95 percent according to American Society of Microbiology.

  The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation guidelines for infection control consist of disinfecting the nebulizer and rinsing with sterile water. The equipment can be left to air dry.

  Air drying may be appropriate but the equipment should be protected from insects such as flies.

  Wash hands with an antibacterial soap before cleaning the equipment and after. Use sterile gloves if possible.

  Caregivers with respiratory infections should wear a mask while cleaning and preparing the equipment.

Considerations

• Nebulizers have frequent use and aid in the treatment of many respiratory illnesses and disorders. Keeping the equipment clean between treatments is very important to avoid infections.

  Cover open wounds on the hands or fingers with a glove before administering treatment and cleaning the equipment.

  Keep the nebulizer in a case that will protect the equipment from damage while traveling.

  Replace equipment such as the medicine cup, mouthpiece and hose after long-term use.