EQUIPMENT EDUCATION

What is 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 bronchodilator (airway-opening) medicines such as albuterol (Ventolin®, Proventil® or Airet®) or ipratropium bromide (Atrovent®).

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. Portable nebulizers, powered by an internal battery or cigarette lighter, are available for individuals requiring treatments away from home.

Nebulizer care guidelines

Your Hospice Care company will show you how to use the nebulizer.You will need the following supplies to give the nebulizer treatment:

• Air compressor
• Nebulizer cup
• Mask or mouthpiece
• Clean eye droppers or other measuring devices to dispense the medication

1. 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.

2. Wash your hands with soap and warm water, and dry completely with a clean towel.

3. Carefully measure the medicine exactly as you have been instructed. Use a separate, clean measuring device (eyedropper or syringe) for each medicine.

4. Remove the top part of the nebulizer cup, as shown to the left.

5. Place your medicine in the bottom of the nebulizer cup, as shown to the right.

6. Attach the top portion of the nebulizer cup and connect the mouthpiece or face mask to the cup.

7. Connect the tubing to both the aerosol compressor and nebulizer cup.

8. 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 as shown to the left.

9. Sit up straight on a comfortable chair.

10. If you are using a mask, position it comfortably and securely on your face as shown to the right.

11. If you are using a mouth piece, place it between your teeth and seal your lips around it as shown to the left.

12. Take slow, deep breaths through your mouth. If possible, hold each breath for two to three seconds before breathing out. This allows the medication to settle into the airways.

13. Continue the treatment until the medication is gone (about seven to 10 minutes).

14. If you become dizzy or feel "jittery," stop the treatment and rest for about five minutes. Then continue the treatment, but try to breathe more slowly. If these symptoms continue with future treatments, inform your Hospice care provider.

15. Turn the compressor off.

16. Wash your hands with warm water and soap, and dry them with a clean towel.