NEBULIZER Indications: Suitable for a wide
range of medications, including
bronchodilators, corticosteroids,
A nebulizer is a medical device
and antibiotics. Commonly used
that converts liquid medication
in both hospital and home
into a mist, allowing it to be
settings.
inhaled directly into the lungs. This
method is particularly useful for
Pros: Effective for a variety of
patients with respiratory
medications; reliable for
conditions like asthma, chronic
continuous use.
obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD), or cystic fibrosis, as it
Cons: Larger in size, can be noisy,
delivers medication quickly and
and requires an electrical outlet
effectively to the lungs. There are
or batteries.
several types of nebulizers, each
with its own functions, differences,
Step-by-Step Instructions:
and indications.
Step 1: Wash your hands
Types of Nebulizers before starting.
1. Jet Nebulizers Step 2: Assemble the nebulizer
by connecting the air
compressor to the nebulizer
cup.
Step 3: Pour the prescribed
medication into the nebulizer
cup.
Step 4: Attach the
mouthpiece or mask to the
nebulizer cup.
Step 5: Turn on the compressor.
Step 6: Breathe in the mist
slowly and deeply through
your mouth (using the
Function: Uses compressed air to mouthpiece) or nose (using
create an aerosolized mist from the mask).
liquid medication.
Step 7: Continue until all the
How It Works: The compressed air medication is used up (usually
passes through a narrow opening, takes 10-15 minutes).
creating a vacuum that pulls the
liquid medication up from the Step 8: Turn off the machine
reservoir and converts it into a and clean the nebulizer parts
fine mist.
according to the degrade with ultrasonic vibrations;
manufacturer's instructions. more expensive.
2. Ultrasonic Nebulizer Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Wash your hands before
starting.
Step 2: Fill the nebulizer's reservoir
with the prescribed medication.
Step 3: Connect the mask or
mouthpiece to the device.
Step 4: Turn on the nebulizer.
Step 5: Breathe in the mist steadily
through the mouthpiece or mask.
Step 6: Continue until the
medication is fully nebulized
(usually takes about 5-10 minutes).
tep 7: Turn off the device and
clean it as per the instructions.
3. Mesh Nebulizers
Function: Uses high-frequency
sound waves to create an
aerosolized mist from liquid
medication.
How It Works: The sound waves
pass through the liquid, causing it
to vibrate and produce fine
particles that form the mist.
Indications: Often used for
bronchodilators and other
respiratory medications. Suitable
for patients who require a silent
operation or need to take their
nebulizer on the go. Function: Uses a vibrating mesh or
membrane with tiny holes to
Pros: Quieter and faster than jet
create an aerosolized mist.
nebulizers; portable and often
battery-operated. How It Works: The liquid
medication is pushed through the
Cons: Not suitable for all types of mesh, which vibrates at high
medications, as some drugs may
speeds to generate a fine mist.
Indications: Ideal for a wide Function: A subtype of mesh
range of medications, including nebulizers, using an electronic
those that may not be suitable for mechanism to vibrate the mesh
ultrasonic nebulizers. Often used and produce the aerosolized mist.
for patients requiring frequent
nebulization or in portable How It Works: Similar to standard
settings. mesh nebulizers but typically
more advanced, offering even
Pros: Compact, silent, and finer mist particles.
efficient; suitable for a broader
range of medications. Indications: Suitable for all types
of medications, including those
Cons: Can be more expensive requiring precise dosing and
than other types; the mesh may delivery.
require regular cleaning or
replacement. Pros: Extremely efficient, quiet,
and portable; allows for precise
Step-by-Step Instructions: control of particle size.
Step 1: Wash your hands before Cons: Higher cost, may require
starting. more maintenance.
Step 2: Add the prescribed
medication to the nebulizer's Step-by-Step Instructions:
medication chamber.
Step 3: Attach the mouthpiece or Step 1: Wash your hands before
mask. starting.
Step 4: Turn on the nebulizer. Step 2: Pour the medication into
Step 5: Inhale the mist calmly and the chamber.
deeply through the mouthpiece Step 3: Attach the mouthpiece or
or mask. mask.
Step 6: Continue until all the Step 4: Turn on the device.
medication is nebulized (typically Step 5: Breathe in the mist slowly
5-10 minutes). and evenly.
Step 7: Turn off the device and Step 6: Use the nebulizer until the
clean it according to the medication is completely
manufacturer’s instructions. aerosolized (typically 5-10
minutes).
4. Vibrating Mesh Nebulizers Step 7: Turn off the nebulizer and
clean it as instructed.
Differences Between Nebulizers
Size and Portability: Jet
nebulizers are larger and less
portable, while ultrasonic and
mesh nebulizers are more
compact and suitable for Bronchitis: To provide relief
travel. from inflammation and
constriction of the airways.
Noise Level: Jet nebulizers are
typically noisier compared to
the nearly silent ultrasonic and
mesh nebulizers.
Medication Compatibility:
Mesh nebulizers are
compatible with a wider
range of medications,
whereas ultrasonic nebulizers
may not be suitable for all
drugs.
Cost: Jet nebulizers are
generally the least expensive,
while mesh and vibrating
mesh nebulizers are more
costly due to their advanced
technology and portability.
Indications for Nebulizer Use
Asthma: For delivering
bronchodilators and
corticosteroids to relieve
airway inflammation and
constriction.
Chronic Obstructive
Pulmonary Disease (COPD):
To administer
bronchodilators and other
medications that improve
breathing and reduce
symptoms.
Cystic Fibrosis: To deliver
mucolytics and antibiotics
that help clear mucus and
treat infections.
Pneumonia and Respiratory
Infections: For delivering
antibiotics directly to the
lungs, aiding in the
treatment of infections.
