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How to use a Nebulizer
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The Correct Use and Maintenance of Nebulizers
Nebulizers are breathing devices. They are used as vehicle to deliver medications for pulmonary disorders. They can be very effective against chronic asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
Most nebulizers use air blasts to turn the liquid medication into mist. This then should be inhaled by the patient. Mist can be easily blown away so there are dangers that the medication could be wasted. In order to avoid this, proper use of nebulizers should be practiced. It is also best to maintain the nebulizer in top condition so that you can get its maximum benefits. It goes without saying that you should learn how to use a nebulizer in order for the device to be effective.
The most important first step you should take is to carefully read and follow the nebulizer manufacturer’s instructions. This will save you a lot of time and it will avoid damage to your equipment. Following the instructions of the manufacturer also have medical benefits. By learning how to use the nebulizer, treatment would be effective.
The second important step is to observe hygienic practices before using the nebulizer. You must ensure that the nebulizer is clean and its peripherals, like tubes, mouth piece, droppers, etc., are properly washed. You must also wash your hands before you handle the nebulizer. Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You can also sanitize your hands with a liquid hand sanitizer.
You should also carefully measure the medication you need. Use a medicine dropper for this. Strictly follow the correct ratio of medicine and distilled water to be used for the nebulizer. Some medications come in single plastic vials. If you have this kind of medicine, just remove the cap and squeeze its contents into the cup of your nebulizer tube.
After fastening the cup into the misting unit, connect the tube to the compressor and assemble the mouth piece. Nebulizer mouth piece comes in two varieties: a breathing pipe or a face mask. For the elderly, a face mask would be ideal. For small children, the breathing pipe is best for them.
Once everything is ready, plug the nebulizer and turn it on. Mist will instantly form so you better start inhaling before the mist escapes into the air. Inhale through your mouth in order to get as much mist as possible into your lungs. If you are administering the medication to children, you can instruct them to breathe normally at first. Then you can tell them to inhale deeply and hold their breath for 5 seconds before they exhale. In this way, the mist can be pumped directly into the patient’s lungs.
Always hold the cup of the nebulizer in upright position in order to avoid spilling its liquid content. This is especially true if you are using the pipe mouth piece. If you are using a face mask, always sit straight and avoid lying down or bending over.
Normally, 10 minutes would be enough to complete the medication. You can now turn off the machine, and disconnect the tube from the compressor. Carefully disassemble the mouth piece and wash them thoroughly with lukewarm water. Air-dry your nebulizer peripherals and keep it in a sealed container.
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