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What is a Nebulizer?
A nebulizer changes liquid medicineinto fine droplets, in aerosol or mist form, that are inhaled through amouthpiece or mask. Nebulizers can be used to deliver topical bronchodilatormedicines such as albuterol or ipratropium bromide.
Several studies have shown clinicalbenefit with topical delivery of antimicrobials to the paranasal sinuses withthe use of nebulizers. This was pointed out specifically in a study on differentialdeposition of aerosols in the maxillary sinus of human cadavers by particle size.This study investigates how the size of nebulized particles influences theefficiency of deposition in the maxillary sinus of human cadavers after FunctionalEndoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS).
A nebulizer may be used instead of ametered dose inhaler (MDI). It is powered by a compressed air machine and plugsinto an electrical outlet. Portable nebulizers, powered by an internal batteryor cigarette lighter, are available for individuals requiring treatments awayfrom home.
Nebulizer CareGuidelines
Your care provider will show you howto use the nebulizer. You will need the following supplies to have thenebulizer treatment:
* Air compressor
* Nebulizer cup
* Mask or mouthpiece
* Clean eye droppers or other measuring devices to dispense themedication
Care of Nebulizer
Cleaning and disinfecting yourequipment is simple, yet very important. Cleaning should be done in a dust- andsmoke-free area away from open windows. Here is how to clean your equipment:
1. After each treatment, rinse thenebulizer cup with warm water, shake off excess water and let it air dry.
2. At the end of each day, thenebulizer cup, mask, or mouthpiece should be washed in warm, soapy water usinga mild detergent, rinsed thoroughly, and allowed to air dry.
Note: There is no need to clean thetubing that connects the nebulizer to the air compressor.
Do not put these parts in thedishwasher.
3. Every third day, after washingyour equipment, disinfect the equipment using a vinegar/water solution or thedisinfectant solution your supplier suggests.
To use the vinegar solution, mix 1/2cup white vinegar with 1-1/2 cups of water. Soak the equipment for 30 minutesand rinse well under a steady stream of water. Shake off the excess water andallow to air dry on a paper towel. Always allow the equipment to completely drybefore storing in a plastic, zipper storage bag.
Compressor Care
Important: Unplug the compressorbefore cleaning it.
1. Cover the compressor with a clean cloth when not in use. Keep itclean by wiping it with a clean, damp cloth as needed.
2. Do not put the air compressor on the floor either for treatments orfor storage.
3. Check the air compressor's filter as directed. Replace or cleanaccording to the directions from your equipment supplier.
4. Always have an extra nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece in case youneed it.
5. Store your medicines in a cool, dry place. Check them often. If theyhave changed color or formed crystals, throw them away and replace them withnew ones.
6. All equipment for your nebulizer therapy can be obtained through yourequipment supplier.
If you're interested in readingabout research studies made about nebulizer treatments, see .The latest study posted here discusses the one mentioned above (differentialdeposition of aerosols in the maxillary sinus).