HEALTH INSIGHTS

Using a Nebulizer (Adult)

September 17, 2019

Using a Nebulizer (Adult)

A nebulizer turns a liquid medicine into a fine and constant mist. This is breathed into the lungs. You breathe the mist in through a mask or a mouthpiece. To use your nebulizer, follow the steps below.

With a mask

  • Wash your hands.
  • Fill the medicine cup with your prescribed dose. Attach the top as directed.

  • Connect one end of the tubing to the medicine cup. Connect the other end to the nebulizer.

  • Attach the mask to the cup.

  • Place the mask over your nose and mouth. Make sure it fits well over your nose and mouth.

  • Turn on the nebulizer.

  • Breathe as directed by your healthcare provider. This may mean taking a normal breath. Or taking slow, deep breaths. Keep the nebulizer upright, until all the medicine is gone. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

  • If using an inhaled corticosteroid, wash your face if a mask was used to deliver the medicine.

 

Follow directions you are given or the package insert for cleaning the nebulizer and the mask.

With a mouthpiece

  • Wash your hands.
  • Fill the medicine cup with your prescribed dose. Attach the top as directed.

  • Connect one end of the tubing to the medicine cup. Connect the other end to the nebulizer.

  • Attach the mouthpiece to the cup.

  • Put the mouthpiece between your teeth. Close your lips around it to form a tight seal. Keep your tongue under the mouthpiece.

  • Turn on the nebulizer.

  • Breathe through the mouthpiece as directed by your healthcare provider. This may mean taking a normal breath. Or taking slow, deep breaths. Keep the nebulizer upright until all the medicine is gone. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

  • If using an inhaled corticosteroid, rinse and gargle your mouth with water. Spit it out if a mouthpiece was used to deliver the medicine.

 

Follow directions you are given or the package insert for cleaning the nebulizer and the mouthpiece.

Updated:  

September 17, 2019

Reviewed By:  

Alan J Blaivas DO,Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN CCRC,Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN CCRC