How to Use a Bulb Syringe

A baby needs a bulb syringe when the nose is too congested to allow nursing or taking the bottle, or if milk or mucus in the baby's mouth causes gagging or choking. Follow these easy steps to ensure you use the bulb syringe properly.

Things You'll Need

• Bulb Syringes For Baby
• Washcloths
• Saline Solutions Drops For Baby

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Instructions

Clear Baby's Mouth

• 1

  Hold baby on your lap or in the crook of your arm.

• 2

  Squeeze the bulb of the syringe, caving in the sides completely.

• 3

  Place the tip of the syringe gently in the baby's mouth, sliding it between the cheek and gums.

• 4

  Release the bulb while slowly pulling it from the baby's mouth.

• 5

  Squeeze the bulb again into a sink to remove the milk or mucus.

• 6

  Wipe off the tip of the syringe and repeat if needed.

Clear Baby's Nose

• 7

  Lay the baby tummy-side up on your lap. Baby's head should be at your knees and slightly tipped back.

• 8

  Drop or squeeze one or two saline drops in baby's nostril if necessary. Keep the baby's head still for about 10 seconds after inserting saline.

• 9

  Squeeze the bulb of the syringe, caving in the sides completely.

• 10

  Gently place the tip of the syringe into one nostril and release pressure on the bulb.

• 11

  Remove the tip and squeeze the bulb into a sink or tissue to remove the mucus.

• 12

  Repeat the steps for the second nostril if needed.

• 13

  Repeat suctioning after ten minutes if the baby is still congested.