Your DeVilbiss nebulizer works in tandem with one of several compressor units to deliver prescription medication to your lungs in aerosol form. You may also see these products marketed as Pulmo-Aide or PulmoMate products. The nebulizer can be used as a mouthpiece or with an aerosol mask that fits over your mouth and nose. Make sure you always wash your hands before using or cleaning the nebulizer, and always clean it thoroughly before its first use.
Using the Nebulizer
Step 1
Place the nebulizer baffle---a narrow nozzle---inside the nebulizer chamber, with the nozzle pointing out, then place the nebulizer cap, which has a wider nozzle, on top of both. Screw the cap into place on the nebulizer chamber.
Step 2
Use an eye dropper to place the prescribed medication you're taking in the chamber, through the opening in the cap.
Step 3
Insert the nebulizer mouthpiece or the bottom of your aerosol mask into the top of the nebulizer cap. You can use the T-piece connect between the cap and the mouthpiece if you so desire.
Step 4
Open the lid to the storage compartment on the compressor, then connect air inlet tubing between the air inlet connector on the underside of the nebulizer chamber and the air outlet inside the compressor compartment. Plug the compressor in, then press the power switch to turn it on.
Step 5
Place the nebulizer mouthpiece between your teeth and close your mouth around it, or hold the aerosol mask to your mouth and nose. Breathe in and out, slowly and deeply, through your mouth.
Step 6
Turn the compressor off if you need to pause your treatment, or once it's completed. Clean the nebulizer after every use according to the steps below.
Cleaning the Nebulizer
Step 1
Make sure the compressor is off and unplugged, then disconnect the air tubing from the nebulizer air inlet and set it aside. Disassemble the mouthpiece or mask, cap, and baffle.
Step 2
Wash everything but the tubing in hot water and liquid dish soap. Rinse for 30 seconds or longer under hot water to remove any detergent residue, then set aside and let air dry between uses.
Step 3
Disinfect your nebulizer daily in addition to cleaning after each use. Soak all parts of the nebulizer in a clean bowl filled with three parts hot water and one part white vinegar for 30 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the nebulizer parts from the vinegar, rinse them under hot tap water, and lay them out on a clean paper towel to air dry. Store them in a clean zip-close plastic bag.
Tips and Warnings
- Some medical professionals recommend removing the mouthpiece from your mouth and holding your breath for five or ten seconds every five to seven breaths. Then let your breath out slowly and return to the mouthpiece for more treatment breaths.
Things You'll Need
- Bowl
- White vinegar
