Children who have certain respiratory disorders oftentimes will require inhaled drugs. One way to give this inhaled medicine is to use nebulizer. In order for these drugs to work properly, know first how to use nebulizer in children correctly.
Nebulizer is a device that functions to convert medicinal liquid into vapor so that it can be inhaled easily and comfortably. The drug that has been converted into vapor will more easily enter and be absorbed through the respiratory tract and lungs.
Several types of drugs are often given through nebulizer are bronchodilators to widen the airways, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and phlegm-thinning drugs. Administration of drugs through nebulizer useful for treating swelling of the respiratory tract, shortness of breath, cough, 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 inhale the vapors. For children and infants, use masks that are appropriate for their age.
Usage Guide Nebulizer on Children
Administration of inhaled drugs through nebulizer often difficult to do with children or infants. This is because they can feel uncomfortable with the sound of the engine or the steam produced nebulizer.
So that inhaled medicines can work optimally when using nebulizer with children, follow these steps:
- Wash hands with soap before touching nebulizer and drugs.
- Make sure the hose connecting the compressor and the mask is clean. If dirty, clean with water and then wipe dry.
- put nebulizer on a flat surface. If the child is afraid when he hears the sound made by the tool nebulizer, you can put this tool on a towel.
- Before pouring the medicine into the container, carefully read the instructions for use on the medicine box.
- Connect the hose that connects the air compressor to the medication container.
- Lay the child, then put the mask on his face.
- Attach the hook strap behind the child's ear to secure the mask position. However, if the child is not comfortable with the strap, you can hold the mask directly on his face. Make sure the mask covers the child's nose and mouth.
- Turn on the machine nebulizer. Make sure the air compressor is blowing steam well and that no steam is leaking to the outside.
- Let the child inhale the steam from nebulizer until the steam runs out. Usually the steam will run out in about 5-15 minutes.
- After use, clean the air compressor, tube, and medicine container so they don't become breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi. Soak the tube and medicine container in warm water for 5 minutes, dry it, then store it in a safe and clean place.
To help calm your little one when using nebulizer, try to provide a show that can distract him, such as cartoons on television.
If your little one complains of dizziness or looks restless when administering medication with nebulizer If done, stop therapy for 5 minutes. After that, go ahead and ask your little one to breathe slowly. If he still feels dizzy and looks restless, stop using it immediately nebulizer and see a doctor for the best solution.
Use nebulizer is a safe and effective way of administering inhaled medications to children with respiratory illnesses at home. However, not all children have the same reaction after administration of inhaled drugs through the mouth nebulizer.
Therefore, if after using nebulizer in children but the condition does not improve, it is advisable to consult a doctor again.
