Home Nebulizer Therapy

A nebulizer, also known as a breathing machine, changes asthma medication from a liquid to a mist, so that it can be more easily inhaled into the lungs. Home nebulizer therapy is particularly effective in providing nebulized sinus treatment for infants and small children and anyone who is unable to use inhalers with spacers.

Using a Home NebulizerIn using a nebulizer, the nebulizer hose is attached to an air compressor, a small machine that takes air from the environment and turns it into a high-pressure stream. The medication is placed into a small cup. Air from the compressor converts the medicine into an aerosol or nebulized mist that you inhale through a mouthpiece. By taking slow, deep breaths, the nebulized medicine is delivered into your lungs. Small children or others who cannot hold the mouthpiece tightly in their lips can wear a mask to maximize the effects of the medicine.

Things you need for your nebulized sinus treatment
Air compressor
Nebulizer cup
Mask or mouthpiece
Medication
Compressor tubing

Once you have the necessary supplies:
• Place the nebulizer on a sturdy surface that will support its weight. Plug in your nebulizer into a properly grounded electrical outlet.
• Carefully measure medications exactly as you have been instructed and put them into the nebulizer cup. Most medications today come in pre-measured unit dose vials so measuring is not necessary. If you do need to measure, use a separate, clean measuring device for each medication.
• Assemble the nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece.
• Connect the tubing to both the aerosol compressor and nebulizer cup.
• Turn on the nebulizer compressor to make sure it is working correctly. You should see a light mist coming from the back of the tube opposite the mouthpiece.
• Sit up straight on a comfortable chair. If the treatment is for your child, he or she may sit on your lap. If you are using a mask, position it comfortably and securely on your or your child's face. If you are using a mouthpiece, place it between your or your child's teeth and seal the lips around it.
• Take slow, deep breaths. If possible, hold each breath for 2-3 seconds before breathing out. This allows the medication to settle into the airways.
• Continue the nebulized sinus treatment until the medication is gone.
• During the treatment, if the medication sticks to the sides of the nebulizer cup, you may shake the cup to loosen the droplets.

Proper care for your nebulizer
• Cleaning and disinfecting your home nebulizer equipment is simple and very important. Proper care prevents infection. Cleaning your nebulizer should be done in a dust- and smoke-free area, away from open windows.
• Cover the compressor with a clean cloth when not in use. Keep it clean by wiping it with a clean, damp cloth as needed.
• Do not put the air compressor on the floor either for nebulizer treatments or for storage.
• Medications for your nebulizers should be stored 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.
• Always have an extra nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece in case you need it.