How to Use a Nebulizer?

Nebulizers are commonly used to deliver asthma medications to children, including albuterol when your child is wheezing and Intal, an anti-inflammatory medication used to prevent asthma attacks.

For many children without a nebulizer, using a metered dose inhaler with a spacer and mask, can be just as effective as a nebulized treatment. Still, younger children under age 5, those that have trouble using an inhaler and children with severe asthma may benefit from having a nebulizer to use at home.

Here are tips for using your nebulizer correctly:

* Always use clean equipment.
* Assemble the air source, nebulizer and tubing per the manufacturers instructions.
* Measure the medications and place them in the nebulizer (remember that ml and cc are the same). Measure your child's dose of Albuterol with 2cc of Bronchosaline or with an ampule of Intal if it has also been prescribed.
* Turn on the nebulizer and hold it close to your child's nose and mouth (or you can use a mask and strap it in place). Older children can use a mouthpiece that is held in their mouth with their lips closed, as long as they only breathe through their mouth (or consider using a nose clip).
* Teach your child to take long, slow, deep breaths during the treatment (and hold his breath for a few seconds if possible).
* Continue the treatment until all of the medicine is gone from he measuring cup. Most treatments last about 10 minutes.
* Turn off the nebulizer and clean your equipment when the treatment is finished per the manufacturers instructions, including rinsing the mask, mouthpiece and T-shaped part (but not the tubing) in warm water, allow it to air dry and then store everything properly.

Important Reminders

* Use your medications as directed by your Pediatrician. Do not change the medication's dosage or stop using a medication unless instructed to do so by your Pediatrician.
* If your nebulizer breaks, get a replacement as soon as possible, and before your child needs another treatment.
* Always have medication for your nebulizer on hand. Call in advance for refills.



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