A nebulizer is a machine that converts liquid medicine into a mist, according to Drug Information Online. You are able to inhale this mist and deliver the medication directly to your airways and lungs. If you have asthma or other types of lung disease like cystic fibrosis (which leads to a buildup of mucus in the lungs), a nebulizer treatment may be right for you. There are specific steps to use a nebulizer.
Step 1
Scrub your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them well.
Step 2
Put the nebulizer machine on a flat surface so it does not fall and check the air filter. If it is dirty, remove the air filter and run it under cold water for two minutes and let it dry well.
Step 3
Open your medication bottle and pour the liquid into the nebulizer's medicine cup. If you need to mix the medications, do so as your doctor instructed.
Step 4
Add sterile saline (salt water) to the medicine cup if your doctor says the medication requires saline for it to be effective.
Step 5
Connect the medicine cup to the nebulizer's mouthpiece and hose.
Step 6
Connect the hose to the nebulizer machine and turn on the nebulizer machine.
Step 7
Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and breathe in through your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes. Look for mist formation in the medicine cup. This reveals the nebulizer machine is working well.
Step 8
Tap the machine when you notice a decrease in mist. This will move the medication if it is stuck. Listen for a sputtering sound and look for a decrease in mist formation. This indicates the nebulizer treatment is complete.
Step 9
Turn off the nebulizer machine and remove the medicine cup and mouthpiece from the hose once the treatment is complete. Wash these items with dishwasher detergent under hot running water and let them air dry.
Step 10
Store the nebulizer machine at room temperature in a safe place far from the reach of children.
Tips and Warnings
- Disinfect your nebulizer mouthpiece, medicine cup and hose at least three times a week. Soak them in your doctor's recommended disinfectant for as long as he recommends. Rinse with water and let the nebulizer parts air dry. Use a mask instead of a mouthpiece for infants and small children.
- Seek immediate help if you have trouble breathing and chest pain. Do not hesitate to call your doctor if you experience any other concerning symptoms.
Things You'll Need
- Nebulizer machine
- Mouthpiece
- Medicine cup
- Hose
- Medication
- Sterile saline
- Dishwasher detergent
