The Right Way to Use Nebulizer in Children

Children who have certain respiratory disorders will often need inhaled medication. One way to give this inhaler is to use a nebulizer. So that these drugs can work well, first know how to use a nebulizer in children properly. Nebulizer is a tool that functions to convert drug liquid into steam so that it can be inhaled easily and comfortably. The drug that has been converted into steam will more easily enter and be absorbed through the respiratory tract and lungs. Some types of drugs that are often given through a nebulizer are bronchodilators to widen the airway, corticosteroids to relieve inflammation, and sputum thinners. Giving drugs through a nebulizer is useful for treating respiratory swelling, shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing caused by certain diseases, such as asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Nebulizer consists of an air compressor, a small container to hold liquid medicine, a hose that connects the air compressor to the medicine container, and a mask that will be used to breathe steam. For children and babies, use a mask that is appropriate for their age.

Guide to Using Nebulizer in Children

Giving inhaled drugs through a nebulizer is often difficult for children or babies. This is because they can feel uncomfortable with the sound of the engine or steam produced by the nebulizer. So that inhaled medicines work best when using a nebulizer in children, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands with soap before touching the nebulizer and medication.
2. Make sure the hose that connects the compressor and mask is clean. If it's dirty, clean it with water then wipe it dry.
3. Place the nebulizer on a flat surface. If the child is afraid when he hears the sound caused by a nebulizer, you can put this tool on a towel.
4. Before pouring the medicine into a container, read the rules of use contained in the pillbox carefully.
5. Connect the hose that connects the air compressor to the medicine container.
6. Lap the child, then put a mask on his face.
7. Attach the strap behind the child's ear to secure the mask position. But if the child is uncomfortable with the strap, you can hold the mask directly on his face. Make sure the mask covers the child's nose and mouth.
8. Turn on the nebulizer engine. Make sure the air compressor releases steam properly and no steam is leaking out.
9. Let the child inhale steam from the nebulizer until the steam is used up. Usually the steam will run out in about 5-15 minutes.
10. After use, clean the air compressor, the tube, and the medicine container so it does not become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Soak the tube and medicine container in warm water for 5 minutes, dry it, then keep it in a safe and clean place.

To help calm your baby when using a nebulizer, try to provide shows that can distract him, such as cartoons on television. If your child complains of dizziness or looks nervous when administering drugs with a nebulizer, stop the therapy for 5 minutes. After that, continue and ask your child to breathe slowly. If he continues to feel dizzy and looks agitated, immediately stop using the nebulizer and see a doctor to get the best solution. The use of a nebulizer is a safe and effective way to give inhaled medicines to children who have respiratory diseases at home. However, not all children have the same reaction after administration of inhaled drugs through a nebulizer. Therefore, if after using a nebulizer in children but the condition does not improve, it is advisable to consult a doctor again.