Nebulizer Treatment and Cleaning
What is a nebulizer?
A nebulizer changes liquid medicine into fine droplets (in aerosol or mist form) that are inhaled through a mouthpiece or mask. Nebulizers can be used to deliver bronchodilator (airway-opening) medications such as albuterol, xopenex or pulmicort (steroid).
A nebulizer may be used instead of a metered dose inhaler (MDI). It is powered by a compressed air machine and plugs into an electrical outlet.
Treatment Procedure
- Place the air compressor on a sturdy surface that will support its weight. Plug the cord from the compressor into a properly grounded (three prong) electrical outlet.
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water and dry completely with a clean towel.
- Carefully measure medications exactly as you have been instructed.
- Remove the top part of the nebulizer cup.
- Place your medication in the bottom of the nebulizer cup.
- Attach the top portion of the nebulizer cup and connect the mouthpiece or face mask to the cup.
- Connect the tubing to both the aerosol compressor and nebulizer cup.
- Turn on the compressor with the on / off switch. Once you turn on the compressor, you should see a light mist coming from the back of the tube opposite the mouthpiece.
- Sit or hold child up straight.
- If you are using a mask, position it comfortably and securely on your child's face.
- If you are using a mouth piece, place it between your teeth and seal your lips around it.
- Take slow, deep breaths through your mouth. If possible, hold each breath for 2-3 seconds before breathing out. This allows the medication to settle into the airways.
- Continue the treatment until the medication is gone.
- If you become dizzy or feel "jittery," stop the treatment and rest for about 5 minutes. Then continue the treatment, but try to breathe more slowly. If these symptoms continue with future treatments, inform your health care provider.
- Turn off the compressor.
- Take several deep breaths and cough. Continue coughing and try to clear any secretions you may have in your lungs. Cough the secretions into a tissue and dispose of it properly.
- Wash your hands with warm water and soap and dry them with a clean towel.
Care of Nebulizer
Cleaning and disinfecting your equipment is simple, yet very important. Cleaning should be done in a dust- and smoke-free area away from open windows. Here is how to clean your equipment:
- After each treatment, rinse the nebulizer cup with warm water, shake off excess water and let it air dry.
- At the end of each day, the nebulizer cup, mask or mouthpiece should be washed in warm, soapy water using a mild detergent, rinsed thoroughly and allowed to air dry. The Pari reusable nebulizer is dishwasher safe, run through cycle on top rack only in a small parts basket.
Note: There is no need to clean the tubing that connects the nebulizer to the air compressor. Do not put these parts in the dishwasher.
Nebulizer Compressor Care
- Cover the compressor with a clean cloth when not in use. Keep it clean by wiping it with a clean, damp cloth as needed.
- Do not put the air compressor on the floor either for treatments or for storage.
- Check the air compressor's filter as directed. Replace or clean according to the directions from your equipment supplier.
- Always have an extra nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece in case you need it.
- Medications should be stored in a cool, dry place. Check them often. If they have changed color or formed crystals, throw them away and replace them with new ones.
- All equipment for your nebulizer therapy can be obtained through Cincinnati Children's Hospital Home Medical Equipment.
Important: Unplug the compressor before cleaning it.
Written 1/05, rev. 6/05
