How to Use an Ultrasonic Nebulizer
Of the three main types of nebulizers available, an ultrasonic nebulizer is the most compact and portable. The lightweight breathing machine is designed to deliver the maximum amount of medication in a short amount of time. Though there are some liquid asthma medications that should not be used in an ultrasonic nebulizer, it's a convenient option for people who need to take their breathing treatment paraphernalia with them.
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Things You'll Need
- Ultrasonic nebulizer
- Level surface
- Distilled or tap water
- Prescription asthma medications
Instructions
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1
Pull the cover of the ultrasonic nebulizer straight up to remove it. Check to make sure the medicine cup has also been removed or take it out if necessary.
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2
Use distilled water--or tap water if that's all you have--at room temperature to fill the reservoir to the indicated line. Return the medicine cup to the water reservoir.
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3
Dilute your medication, if necessary, with saline or distilled water. Most ultrasonic nebulizers won't dispense less than 4 ml of liquid or more than 8 ml. Any liquid medicines less than 4 ml will need to be diluted and dosages which are more than 8 ml will need to be administered as two treatments.
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4
Pour the correct dosage of medicine into the medicine cup and put the cover back on the nebulizer. Place the nebulizer on a level surface and attach the mouthpiece, mask and/or any other attachments you will be using to deliver your medication.
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Switch the button to the "On" position and press the power button. This process will vary a little by model. Adjust the airflow to the level at which your medication will be dispensed most effectively. Talk to your physician or respiratory therapist if you are unsure which level to use.
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Place the mask securely over your mouth and nose or put the mouthpiece firmly between your lips. Inhale for approximately 5 seconds, hold the mist for up to 10 seconds and exhale slowly.
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Continue this process until all the medicine has been dispensed. This will typically take between 5 and 7 minutes, during which time you can expect a variation in the force of the airflow and the amount of medication in the mist.
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Turn off the nebulizer, let it cool down and clean it thoroughly before putting it away.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember to carry extra batteries as a back-up power source for your nebulizer.
Confirm that the nebulizer switch is in the "Off" position before you use it.
