Nebulizer Treatment Procedure

Nebulizer Treatment Basics

The Nebulizer treats asthmatic patients by administering vaporized medication that can be inhaled by the patient over a continuous period of time. In most cases, the medication is inhaled by the patient over a period of 15 to 20 minutes via a face mask that covers the nose and mouth. The Nebulizer is used in the home environment, but it is also the device used to treat asthmatics in hospitals and emergency rooms.

Components of the Nebulizer

The Components of the Nebulizer

The Nebulizer requires several essential components in order to administer treatment: the air compressor or oxygen tank, nebulizer cup, mouthpiece or face mask, measuring device for medication. Using the measuring device--often a simple eye dropper--the medication is dispensed into the nebulizer cup. The air compressor or oxygen tank is connected to this nebulizer cup through some tubing. When the air or oxygen is compressed through this tubing and reaches the nebulizer cup, it vaporizes the medication creating a fine mist. This mist or vapor is then able to be inhaled by the patient through the facial mask or mouthpiece.

Preparation for Treatment

Proper Preparation of the Nebulizer

In order for the Nebulizer to properly administer treatment, it must first be placed on a level surface that will support its weight. It must also be plugged into a grounded 3-prong electrical outlet. All components and devices must be clean to prevent any cross contamination during the procedure.

Nebulizer Treatment Procedure Steps

To administer treatment, use the eyedropper or other measuring device to dispense the correct amount of liquid medication (per your doctor's instructions) into the nebulizer cup. Place the lid on top of the nebulizer cup, and follow by connecting the face mask or mouthpiece. Connect the tubing between the cup and the air compressor (or oxygen tank) if it is not already in place. Turn the nebulizer on: the compressor should begin running. Find a comfortable position (sitting straight up in a chair, lying down on your bed) and place the mouthpiece in your mouth (between your teeth with your lips closed over it) or the face mask securely over your face (covering the mouth and nose). Take deep breaths of the medicated vapor until it has fully dispensed and the nebulizer cup is empty.

Results of Nebulizer Treatment

When used properly, the Nebulizer will succeed in delivering the proper dose of airway-opening medication to an asthmatic. The result is a quieting of the bronchospasms, mucus production, and overall airway inflammation that characterizes an asthma attack. Nebulizer treatments are effective for infants, children and other patients who have difficulty holding their breath with the inhaled medications administered via metered-dose inhalers. The continuous vapor that is inhaled during nebulizer treatments is also effective in treating nighttime asthma when asthma symptoms are more prominent.

Resources

• EMT-Basic Nebulized Treatment Protocol
• Respiratory Treatments with a Nebulizer
• Home Nebulizer Therapy