Pediatric Nebulizer
Pediatric Nebulizer
A nebulizer is a medical device that converts liquid medication into a fine mist for easy inhalation into the airways. It's particularly valuable in pediatric care for delivering respiratory medications to infants and young children who cannot effectively use inhalers.
Key Points
- Delivers aerosolized medications directly to the respiratory tract
- Treatment duration typically ranges from 10-15 minutes
- Optimal particle size: 1-5 microns for effective lung deposition
- Particularly useful for children under 5 years
- Can deliver multiple medications simultaneously
Clinical Applications
- Asthma exacerbations
- Bronchiolitis
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Chronic lung diseases
- Upper respiratory tract infections
Types of Nebulizers
1. Jet Nebulizers
- Most common type in clinical practice
- Uses compressed air or oxygen to aerosolize medication
- Cost-effective but relatively noisy
- Treatment time: 10-15 minutes
2. Ultrasonic Nebulizers
- Uses high-frequency vibrations to create aerosol
- Quieter operation than jet nebulizers
- More expensive but faster treatment time
- Not suitable for certain medications like suspensions
3. Mesh Nebulizers
- Latest technology using vibrating mesh
- Most efficient drug delivery
- Silent operation
- Portable and battery-operated options available
- Higher cost but shorter treatment time
Components & Setup
Essential Components
- Medication cup (nebulizer chamber)
- Compressor unit (power source)
- Connecting tubing
- Mouthpiece or mask
- Air filter
Setup Procedure
- Wash hands thoroughly
- Connect tubing to compressor and medication cup
- Add prescribed medication to cup
- Attach appropriate interface (mask/mouthpiece)
- Position patient upright
- Check assembly and connections
Administration Technique
Preparation Steps
- Verify prescription and medication
- Check equipment functionality
- Position child comfortably (upright preferred)
- Explain procedure at age-appropriate level
Administration Process
- Ensure proper seal with mask/mouthpiece
- Start compressor
- Monitor breathing pattern
- Encourage normal breathing
- Continue until medication depleted
- Monitor patient throughout treatment
Age-Specific Considerations
- Infants: Use fitted mask, consider during sleep
- Toddlers: Distraction techniques helpful
- School-age: Can use mouthpiece effectively
Maintenance & Care
Daily Cleaning
- Disassemble all parts
- Rinse with warm water
- Soak in warm soapy water
- Rinse thoroughly
- Air dry completely
Weekly Disinfection
- Soak in vinegar solution (1:3 with water)
- Or use recommended disinfectant
- Run empty for 10-20 seconds
- Replace filters as recommended
Troubleshooting
- Check for cracks or damage
- Verify proper assembly
- Monitor treatment duration
- Replace parts as needed
