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 nebulizer 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.
1.
Twist open the top of the unit dose plastic vial and
squeeze contents into the nebulizer cup (Fig
1).(Inhalation solution is also available in multidose
bottles with dropper. Please consult your physician or
pharmacist for directions for use.)
2.
Connect the nebulizer to the mouth piece or mask (Fig
2).
3.
Connect the nebulizer to the mouth piece or mask (Fig
2).
4.
Sit in a comfortable, upright position. Place the
mouthpiece in your mouth (or put on the mask) and turn
on the compressor (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.
