How Do You Use and Clean 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 inhaled medications such as albuterol (bronchodilator), or budesonide (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 the 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 your child up straight.
- If you are using a mask, position it comfortably and securely on your child's face.
- If you are using a mouthpiece, place it between your child's teeth and seal their lips around it.
- Ask your child to take slow, deep breaths through the mouth.
- Continue the treatment until the medication is gone.
- If your child becomes dizzy or feels "jittery," stop the treatment and rest for about five minutes. Then continue the treatment, but tell your child to try to breathe more slowly. If these symptoms continue with future treatments, tell your healthcare provider.
- Turn off the compressor.
- Tell your child to take several deep breaths and cough. They should continue coughing to try to clear any secretions in the lungs. Have your child cough the secretions into a tissue and dispose of it properly.
- Wash your hands with warm water and soap and dry with a clean towel.
Care of Nebulizer
Cleaning and disinfecting the nebulizer 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 the equipment:
- After each treatment, rinse the nebulizer cup with sterile or distilled water, then shake off excess water and let it air dry.
- At home: At the end of each day, the nebulizer and parts should be disinfected. Refer to the nebulizer manufacturer’s instructions on what method is appropriate for each nebulizer you use. Below are some options:
- Heat Method (always confirm nebulizer will tolerate heat method chosen below):
- Place in boiling water for five minutes and then air dry nebulizer and parts.
- Use dishwasher top rack. (The Pari reusable nebulizer is dishwasher safe; run through cycle on top rack only in a small-parts basket.)
- Use electric steam sterilizer.
- Cold Method:
- Soak in 70% isopropyl alcohol for five minutes, rinse off with sterile or distilled water, and air dry the nebulizer parts before storage.
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. Important: Unplug the compressor before cleaning it.
- 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 it according to the directions from your equipment supplier.
Reminders:
- 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 Home Medical Equipment.
