Caring for Your Nebulizer
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 topical bronchodilator medicines such as albuterol or ipratropium bromide.
Several studies have shown clinical benefit with topical delivery of antimicrobials to the paranasal sinuses with the use of nebulizers. This was pointed out specifically in a study on differential deposition of aerosols in the maxillary sinus of human cadavers by particle size. This study investigates how the size of nebulized particles influences the efficiency of deposition in the maxillary sinus of human cadavers after Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS).
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 care provider will show you how to use the nebulizer. You will need the following supplies to have the nebulizer treatment:
* Air compressor
* Nebulizer cup
* Mask or mouthpiece
* Clean eye droppers or other measuring devices to dispense the medication
Care of Nebulizer
Cleaning and disinfecting your equipment is simple, yet very important. Cleaning should be done in a dust- and smoke-free area away from open windows. Here is how to clean your equipment:
1. After each treatment, rinse the nebulizer cup with warm water, shake off excess water and let it air dry.
2. At the end of each day, the nebulizer cup, mask, or mouthpiece should be washed in warm, soapy water using a mild detergent, rinsed thoroughly, and allowed to air dry.
Note: There is no need to clean the tubing that connects the nebulizer to the air compressor.
Do not put these parts in the dishwasher.
3. Every third day, after washing your equipment, disinfect the equipment using a vinegar/water solution or the disinfectant solution your supplier suggests.
To use the vinegar solution, mix 1/2 cup white vinegar with 1-1/2 cups of water. Soak the equipment for 30 minutes and rinse well under a steady stream of water. Shake off the excess water and allow to air dry on a paper towel. Always allow the equipment to completely dry before storing in a plastic, zipper storage bag.
Compressor Care
Important: Unplug the compressor before cleaning it.
1. Cover the compressor with a clean cloth when not in use. Keep it clean by wiping it with a clean, damp cloth as needed.
2. Do not put the air compressor on the floor either for treatments or for storage.
3. Check the air compressor's filter as directed. Replace or clean according to the directions from your equipment supplier.
4. Always have an extra nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece in case you need it.
5. Store your medicines in a cool, dry place. Check them often. If they have changed color or formed crystals, throw them away and replace them with new ones.
6. All equipment for your nebulizer therapy can be obtained through your equipment supplier.
If you?re interested in reading about research studies made about nebulizer treatments, see http://www.sinusdynamics.com/physician_research-studies.html. The latest study posted here discusses the one mentioned above (differential deposition of aerosols in the maxillary sinus).
