What Is A Nebulizer

A nebulizer , also known as an atomizer , is a machine that vaporizes liquid medication into a fine mist to be inhaled into the lungs via a mouthpiece or mask. A nebulizer is used to administer medication primarily for those with asthma , but also for those with cystic fibrosis or other respiratory illnesses. Although studies have shown that both inhalers and nebulizers tend to be equally effective in delivering medications, nebulizers are preferred for use in more serious rescue situations when one is experiencing a severe asthma attack . Nebulizers can administer a higher dosage of medication, but inhalers are easier to use, preferred for their portability and low cost and good for everyday use.

Nebulizers can vary greatly in size and can run on either electricity or battery power. It consists of a compressor that pumps oxygen through plastic tubing into a cup that holds the liquid medication. Once the oxygen mixes with the liquid, it is delivered in vaporized form through the mouthpiece or facemask to the lungs.

Under normal circumstances, it should take about five to fifteen minutes to complete the nebulizer treatment. However, if a child taking the medication is uncooperative or crying, the treatment may take longer or the effectiveness of the dose may be reduced. A face mask may also need to be used for the elderly or for those unable to use an inhaler themselves.

Medications used in a nebulizer usually include Albuterol, which is a bronchodilator , as well as Atrovent, which is also known as ipratropium bromide. In order to use a nebulizer , a child must have some degree of coordination and be able to cooperate in order for the medicine to be delivered effectively. One of the benefits of using a facemask with a nebulizer is that an infant or elderly person can passively receive the medication when the mask is strapped on and he or she is sitting quietly.

In the case of an emergency involving a power outage, or when a patient needs a nebulizer treatment on the road, there are some nebulizers available on the market with batteries or cigarette lighter adapters. As with any piece of medical equipment , a nebulizer should be sanitized after each use per manufacturer's instructions.

Mail Order Nebulizer Medications from Triad Respiratory

Triad Respiratory has teamed up with AmEx pharmacy a community pharmacy like no other, an one of the nations leading providers of mail order nebulizer medications, to provide nebulizer medications for our customers. We'll work with your physician to insure you receive the nebulizer medications you need when you need them. We will also process your insurance claims and inform you in advance of any out of pocket expense for your nebulizer mediations. Contact Triad Respiratory for more information about ordering your nebulizer mediations.

Home Nebulizer Therapy

Your doctor has ordered medication to be delivered through a home nebulizer. A nebulizer is a device powered by a compressed air machine. It allows you to take medications in the form of a mist (wet aerosol).

You will need the following supplies to give the nebulizer treatment:

• Air compressor
• Nebulizer cup
• Mask or mouthpiece
• Clean eyedroppers or other measuring devices to dispense the medication

Treatment procedure:

1. Place the air compressor on a sturdy surface that will support its weight. Plug the cord from the compressor into a properly grounded (three prong) electrical outlet.
2. Before treatment, wash your hands with soap and water and dry completely.
3. Carefully measure medications exactly as you have been instructed and put them into the nebulizer cup. A separate, clean measuring device should be used for each medication.
4. Assemble the nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece.
5. Connect the tubing to both the aerosol compressor and nebulizer cup.
6. Turn on the compressor to make sure it is working correctly. (You should see a light mist coming from the back of the chamber opposite the mouthpiece.)
7. You should sit up straight either in your lap or on a comfortable chair.
8. If you are using a mask, position it comfortably and securely on your face.
9. If you uses a mouth piece, you should place it between the teeth and seal the lips around it.
10. Brethe normally through your moth. Periodically take a deep breath and hold it for 2 to 3 seconds before breathing out. This allows the medication to settle in to the airways.
11. Continue the treatments until the medication is gone (about 7 to 10 minutes).
12. If you become dizzy or jittery, stop the treatment and rest for about 5 minutes. Continue the treatments, encouraging slower breathing. If this continues to be a problem with future treatments, inform your doctor.

Care of Nebulizer:

Cleaning and disinfecting your equipment is simple, yet very important. Proper care prevents infection. Cleaning should be done in a dust and smoke free area away from open windows.

Following are instructions for cleaning your equipment:

1. Wash your hands.
2. After each treatment rinse the nebulizer cup thoroughly with warm water, shake off excess water and let air dry. At the end of each day, the nebulizer cup, mask or mouthpiece should be washed in warm soapy water, rinsed thoroughly and allowed to air dry.
3. Your equipment must be disinfected every third day using either a vinegar/water solution or a disinfectant solution that Triad Respiratory suggests. Soak for a minimum of 30 minutes then rinse and let air dry.Always allow the equipment to completely air dry before storing in a plastic, ziplock bag.

General care:

1. Cover the compressor with a clean cloth when not using. Keep it clean by wiping it with a clean, damp cloth as needed.
2. Do not put the air compressor on the floor either for treatments or for storage.
3. Check the air compressor's filter as directed. Replace or clean according to the directions from Triad Respiratory.
4. Always have an extra nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece in case you need it.
5. Medications should be stored in a cool, dry place. Check them often. If they have changed color or formed crystals, throw them away and replace with them with new ones.
6. All equipment and supplies for your nebulizer therapy can be obtained through Triad Respiratory..