If you are the parent of a child with asthma or another respiratory ailment, giving him a nebulizer treatment may be part of your daily routine. Since it is often difficult to get an energetic toddler to sit still for a treatment, timing it right may be key to getting your child to sit long enough to receive the full benefits of the medication.
Function
Nebulizers are sometimes prescribed for children with asthma, allergies or severe cough. A nebulizer machine sprays a fine mist of medication through a mask. A mouthpiece is connected to the machine via plastic tubing to deliver the medication. According to Children's Hospital Boston, the medicines used in nebulizers help your child by loosening the mucus in her lungs so she can cough it up more easily. They also relax the airway muscles so that more air can move in and out of the lungs.
Considerations
Choose a time that your child is most relaxed and likely to sit calmly to give the treatment. If giving a night-time treatment, make it a part of a bedtime routine, after a warm bath. You may want to allow him to sit in your lap or in his own special chair during this time. Use the time to read a book to your child, or let him watch a few minutes of his favorite television show or movie. It is important that your child be still and relaxed for the duration of his treatment, since nebulizers may be less effective if your child is crying while they're being used.
Time Frame
Your doctor may prescribe using the nebulizer every four to six hours, depending on the severity of her illness. Some nebulizer treatments are used as a preventative measure, and are done once daily. Your doctor may recommend year-round treatments, or in the case of a cough caused by a seasonal allergy, just during the months your child is most affected. Most treatments take 15 to 20 minutes.
Age Appropriateness
According to pediatric website AskDr.Sears, the nebulizer is the most effective asthma treatment for infants and toddlers. Nebulizers are usually only needed in older children with moderate to severe asthma who require frequent treatments. As your child gets older, he may be able to transition to using an inhaler.
Warning
Visit your child's pediatrician regularly to ensure proper care of his illness. Your doctor will need to evaluate your child periodically and may recommend discontinuing treatment or using the nebulizer more or less frequently, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
