How to Use a Nebuliser with Oxygen?

Using a nebulizer with oxygen typically involves connecting the oxygen source to the nebulizer machine, but the provided reference focuses on using an air compressor, not oxygen. The steps below are adapted to include the use of oxygen based on best practices:

Here's a guide on how to correctly use a nebulizer, adapting the steps from the provided reference to include oxygen use, rather than an air compressor:

Steps for Nebulizer Use with Oxygen:

1. Wash Your Hands: Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water to maintain hygiene.

2. Prepare the Nebulizer:

   • Ensure all parts of the nebulizer are clean.
   • Connect the oxygen tubing. Connect one end of the oxygen tubing to your oxygen source (e.g., oxygen concentrator, oxygen tank).
   • Connect the other end of the tubing to the nebulizer's oxygen inlet usually located at the base of the device where it connects to the mask or mouthpiece.

3. Fill the Medicine Cup:

   • Carefully pour the prescribed medication into the medicine cup of the nebulizer. Ensure you have the correct dose of medication.

4. Assemble the Nebulizer:

   • Attach the mouthpiece or mask to the medicine cup.
   • Make sure that all connections are secure to prevent oxygen leakage.

5. Turn on the Oxygen:

   • Start the oxygen flow at the rate prescribed by your doctor. This step is crucial for proper nebulizer functioning with oxygen and to receive your medication correctly.

6. Begin Treatment:

   • Place the mouthpiece in your mouth or securely position the mask over your nose and mouth.
   • Breathe normally through your mouth. You should feel the mist.
   • Continue the treatment until the medicine cup is empty, usually about 10 to 15 minutes.
   • If using a mask, make sure it fits comfortably to ensure the medication is administered effectively.
   • Maintain an upright position during the treatment to allow effective medication delivery to the lungs.

7. Clean-up:

   • After the treatment is complete, turn off the oxygen.
   • Clean the nebulizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually involves washing the medicine cup and mouthpiece or mask with warm, soapy water and allowing it to air dry.

Important Considerations

• Prescription: Always use the nebulizer and oxygen as prescribed by your doctor.
• Oxygen Flow: The flow rate of oxygen is very important. The prescribed oxygen rate can affect the rate of medication nebulization.
• Safety: Avoid placing the oxygen device near open flames.