ALLA BILIAK, KATHERINE VALENCIA, MAISEE VUE
Nebulization Therapy
Nebulizer
machine
Mouth piece
What is a nebulizer?
It is a device that converts liquid medication into ne droplets
which can then be inhaled directly into the lungs.
Nebulizers are used to treat & manage patients with respiratory disease such
as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia &
cystic fibrosis. It is helpful for patients who have difficulty using inhalers as it
does not require coordinated activation of inhaler & inhalation of medication.
JET NEBULIZER
MESH NEBULIZER
Nebulizer tubing
1
fi
ULTRASONIC
Aerosol mask
Nursing
Considerations
The expected outcome of nebulization
therapy is for the medication to be
administered and breathed in by the patient,
with the patient exhibiting intended effect of
the medication.
Multiple medications are rarely mixed in the
nebulizer. Generally, bronchodilators are given
first to open up airways, followed by antiinflammatory agents/corticosteroids to help
reduce swelling.
Medicines are stored in a cool, dry place.
Follow manufacturers recommendations. Some
may require refrigeration.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Stanford
Cystic Fibrosis Center recommend the
following sequence: bronchodilators Hypertonic saline - Pulmozyme - Antibiotics Steroids.
Nursing Assessment
Appropriateness of the drug for the patient.
Airway clearance (chest physiotherapy, Vest,
Acapella) can be done during albuterol
inhalation.
Assess respiratory status of patient including
rate, rhythm, depth; lung sounds; oxygen
saturation before and after nebulization
therapy.
Instruct patient to seal lips around mouthpiece,
inhale slowly and deeply through the mouth. If
using a mask, ensure a good seal over the
mouth and nose.
Assess patient knowledge re: medication/
procedure. Provide teaching as appropriate.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF THE NEBULIZER
After each treatment, rinse medicine cup and mask or
mouthpiece with warm water. Shake off excess water and air dry.
At the end of each day, wash medicine cup, mask, or
mouthpiece in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and place
the parts on a towel to air dry.
Depending on facility policy, nebulizer tubing, cup, mask, or
mouthpiece may be replaced with a new set weekly.
2