Keep in mind that over time, your needs may change. Technology will also undoubtedly change, meaning that you should change your equipment of choice when newer and much more advanced versions of nebulizers come out on the market. Do not be mislead by size. Take into account the effectively as well as convenience of the equipment in relation to your lifestyle.
Types of nebulizers:
1. Non Portable Nebulizer
A large sized nebulizer for use in the home. These units are excellent for individuals who can use this at home and uses inhalers on the go and for small children who are still not capable of using a metered dose inhaler. Although they can be carrier when traveling, these units are not the best choice since they are bulky and needs a power source that require A/C exclusively.
2. Portable Nebulizer
These units are small and handy, ideal for the individual who is always on the go, preferring to use a nebulizer than an inhaler. Battery operated, they can be used conveniently anywhere, anytime.
3. Standard Jet Nebulizer
These units are the common type of nebulizer. Air pressure is used to turn medication into mist that can be inhaled through a mouthpiece or a mask.
4. Ultrasonic nebulizer
Similar to the standard jet nebulizer, produces more particles that are of the same size compared to compressor nebulizers. If particles are uniform in size, it allows better aerosol penetration into the lungs.
5. Spacers For Metered Dose Inhalers
This type increases the space between the mouth and the metered dose inhaler. Spacers aid in the inhalation of more medication into the lungs, avoiding depositing of medications on the back of the user's throat. Spacers are recommended for all users of Metered dose inhalers and specially to individuals having coordination problems when breathing while at the same time depressing the inhaler gradually. If respiratory medication needs to be transported to the lungs directly, this can be done through the use of a nebulizer if prescribed by your doctor. Signs for this treatment include:
- Tightness in chest
- Increased or thick secretions
- Pneumonia (congestion)
- Atelectasis
6. Avoid Treatment If:
- Autonomic hyperreflexia, or an increase in the individual's blood pressure
- Increased pulse
- When the individual has a history of harmful reactions when taking medications.
7. How to use a nebulizer?
- Place the unit in a sturdy table.
- Wash your hands well with soap and water.
- Take off the cup portion of the nebulizer
- Draw up the amount that is prescribed of the mediation in a syringe or an eye dropper.
- Put the medication inside the medicine cup with normal saline of 3cc.
- Close the cup to the nebulizer.
- The oxygen tubing is to be attached on the nipple on the nebulizer and fasten the other end unto the oxygen tank or compressor.
- Make sure that the patient is well seated and comfortable on a chair.
- Turn the compressor or tank on, until the mist is seen that is coming out of the nebulizer's mouthpiece.
- Check the pulse
- Placing the mouthpiece in the patient's mouth (place it between the teeth, sealing it with the lips), slow deep breaths should be taken. Hold your breath for two seconds then breathe out. This permits that the medication is settled to the airways.
- Continue the breathing process until such time that there is no more mist coming out of the mouthpiece or mask.
- Turn the machine off, take off the tube and mouthpiece.
- Clean tube and mouthpiece with warm soapy water water after each use.
8. Nebulizer Care:
- Rinse the tube and the mouthpiece of the nebulizer after each treatment, with warm soapy water then rinse with warm water. Shake off excess water and place it on a clean towel to dry.
- Disinfect the equipment every three days with the use of vinegar and water solution or any disinfecting spray that the supplier suggests.
9. Care of Compressor:
- When not in use, the compressor should be covered with a clean cloth. To keep it clean, wipe it with a damp and clean cloth as needed.
- The air compressor should never be put on the floor for whatever purpose. Be it for treatment or for storage.
- Frequent examination of the air compressor's filter is needed. Replace very dirty filters or clean it following the instruction manual.
- Always keep an extra nebulizer cup, mask and mouthpiece handy.
- Medicines must be stored in a cool, dry place. Check on them often. Throw away any medication that has changed in color.
Pink Save My Life
As gas prices throughout the country are rising above $4.10 per gallon (with some places being much higher), all of us are feeling the pinch on our wallets as we continue are daily activities. Many of us require a drive to get to work or even to go to the store for necessary food. Over the years, however, many of us have gotten into the habit of driving around the block or sometimes just down the street. In fact, we drive everywhere we go. Many of these habits can change to help save us some money.
Imagine the amount of gas that could be saved if you walk or bike around the block or "just down the street". Imagine the savings in car wear-and-tear. Even if it saves you only $2.00 a day to take the short trips on foot, that would quickly lead to $14.00 a week or $730.00 a year. Many of us through the act of walking would save much more than $2.00 a day, leading to thousands of dollars of saving a year. Wouldn't it be great to put an extra #1000.00 a year in a savings account, a CD or a retirement plan?
The savings of walking or biking, however, go much farther than the monetary value. Did you know that by walking you can actually save your life? Let's give you some statistics. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), by 2030 the population of older Americans will have doubled to approximately 70 million. Among this population, chronic disease has become a large burden and may lead to disability or even death. Physical activity is one of the protective measures that can help us avoid many of these disease related problems. As little as 30 minutes a day has been shown to improve diabetes, decrease blood pressure, improve heart function, eliminate depression and improve overall functioning of the circulation. Although many other factors come into play here, walking regularly improves overall health.
Let me give some specific examples. Through the act of exercise, in my own life, I significantly reduced the cholesterol that commonly leads to heart disease, my blood pressure and pulse rate reduced due to greater efficiency of the circulation and heart in pumping blood throughout the body. These simple changes improved every indicator in my life for life expectancy. These health benefits can also add additional funds to your pocket through savings in life insurance policy premiums, decreased medication or physician costs and increased abilities to walk (maybe even more than around the block).
One hidden benefit that is often not discussed, is the "runner's high". The hormones and enzymes that are released with exercise have an even greater health benefit to many people than the physical signs previously discussed. Exercise no only increases health, but also increases your happiness, your "sense of wellbeing" and your energy level. After you get past the aches and pains associated with starting a new exercise program, most people describe themselves as "just feeling better." This improved feeling adds a joy to your life that helps you enjoy every aspect of your life. So it will help you live longer and also enjoy every minute of that longer life.
Now that you are considering the value of walking, I want to remind you of some key points to ensure safety and health in this activity:
1) Correct shoes are important. Avoid walking in flip-flops or barefoot, as either could increase your chance of injury or foot pain. Shoes that are designated as walking or running shoes are the best option for this activity.
2) Start walking slowly. Don't be in too much of a hurry, or start walking too far the first time. As you get more used to the activity the body will be more prepared and the muscles will function more successfully in providing the speed or distance that you desire.
3) Enjoy your scenery. One of the blessings you can enjoy with a simple walk is the beautiful world that we live in. You will see things in your neighborhood that you miss when in a car.
Walking is a great activity and has benefits that we haven't even mentioned. So save some money and save a life, start walking today.
Brandt R Gibson Dpm has sinced written about articles on various topics from Fitness, Diabetes Treatment and Pneumonia Causes. Brandt R. Gibson, DPM, MS is a podiatrist in American Fork, Utah. He often strives to educate people and help them "optimize what they were born with." For further educational materials and recommended medical products, visit his website at. Brandt R Gibson Dpm's top article generates over 165000 views. to your Favourites.
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