What is a nebulizer?
A nebulizer is a device used to administer asthma medication. The nebulizer is powered by
a compressor that allows asthma medication to be taken in the form of a mist (wet
aerosol).
There are three parts to a nebulizer: a cup; a mouthpiece or mask attached to a "T" shaped part; and thin, plastic tubing that connects to the compressor.
A nebulizer helps ensure that these types of patients get the right amount of medication:
| Patients who have difficulty using metered-dose inhalers |
| Patients with severe COPD or asthma who can not hold their breath long enough to use the metered dose inhaler (MDI) |
| Patients with acute asthma attacks |
Using your nebulizer
Please read the instructions completely before using your nebulizer.
Twist open the top of the unit dose plastic vial and squeeze contents into the nebulizer cup (Fig 1).
Fig 1. (Inhalation solution is also available in multidose bottles with dropper.
Please consult your physician or pharmacist for directions for use.)
Connect the nebulizer to the mouth piece or mask (Fig 2).
Fig 2.
Connect the nebulizer to the compressor.
Sit in a comfortable, upright position. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth (or put on the mask) and turn on the compressor (Fig 3).
Fig 3.
Breathe as calmly, deeply, and evenly as possible until no more mist is formed in the nebulizer chamber (about 5 to 15 minutes). Try to hold each breath a second or two before breathing out. At this point, the treatment is finished.
Store the medication as directed after use.
Clean the nebulizer (see below). It is very important to clean the nebulizer, because an unclean nebulizer may cause an infection. Cleaning the nebulizer regularly keeps the equipment from clogging and helps it last longer.
Note: Use your medication only as directed by your physician or pharmacist.
Caring for your nebulizer
After each use
| Remove the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part from the cup. Remove the tubing and set it aside. The tubing should not be washed or rinsed. Rinse the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part in warm running water for 30 seconds. Use distilled or sterile water for rinsing, if possible. |
| Shake off excess water. Air dry on a clean cloth or paper towel. |
| Put the mask or mouthpiece and 'T' shaped part, cup, and tubing back together, and connect the device to the compressor. Run the machine for 10 to 20 seconds to dry the inside of the nebulizer. |
| Disconnect the tubing from the compressor. Store the nebulizer in a sealable plastic bag. |
| Place a cover over the compressor. |
Once every day
| Remove the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part from the cup. Remove the tubing and set it aside. The tubing should not be washed or rinsed. |
| Wash the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part with a mild dishwashing soap and warm water. |
| Rinse under a strong stream of water for 30 seconds. Use distilled or sterile water if possible. |
| Shake off excess water. Air dry on a clean cloth or paper towel. |
| Put the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part, cup, and tubing back together and connect the device to the compressor. Run the machine for 10 to 20 seconds to dry the inside of the nebulizer. |
| Disconnect the tubing from the compressor. Store the nebulizer in a sealable plastic bag. |
| Place a cover over the compressor. |
Once or twice a week
| Remove the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part from the cup. Remove the tubing and set it aside. The tubing should not be washed or rinsed. Wash the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part with a mild dishwashing soap and warm water. |
| Rinse under a strong stream of water for 30 seconds. |
| Soak for 30 minutes in a solution that is 1 part distilled white vinegar and 2 parts distilled water. Throw out the vinegar water solution after use; do not reuse it. |
| Rinse the nebulizer parts under warm running water for 1 minute. Use distilled or sterile water, if possible. |
| Shake off excess water. Air dry on a clean cloth or paper towel. |
| Put the mask or mouthpiece and "T" shaped part, cup, and tubing back together, and connect the device to the compressor. Run the machine for 10 to 20 seconds to dry the inside of the nebulizer thoroughly. |
| Disconnect the tubing from the compressor. Store the nebulizer in a sealable plastic bag. |
| Clean the surface of the compressor with a well-wrung, soapy cloth or sponge. You could also use an alcohol or disinfectant wipe. |
| NEVER PUT THE COMPRESSOR IN WATER. |
| Place a cover over the compressor. |
