Today our topic of discussion is Nebulization Therapy.
Nebulization Therapy
NEBULIZATION THERAPY
Nebulization therapy is to liquefy and remove retained secretions from the respiratory tract. A nebulizer is a device that produces a stable aerosol of fluid and/or drug particles. A nebulizer changes medication from a liquid to a mist so you can inhale it into your lungs.
Nebulizers come in home (tabletop) and portable models. Home nebulizers are larger, and you have to plug them into an electrical outlet. Portable nebulizers run on batteries, or you can plug them into a car outlet. Some are only a bit bigger than a deck of cards, so you can carry them in a bag or briefcase.
A nebulizer is often easier for young children to use because all they have to do is breathe normally. It takes longer to deliver medicine: at least 5 or 10 minutes. And even portable nebulizers can be bulky and hard to carry around. But some people prefer nebulizers because they can see and feel the mist of medication.
Purpose
- To relieve respiratory insufficiency due to bronchospasm
- To correct the underlying respiratory disorders responsible for bronchospasm
- To liquefy and remove retained thick secretion from the lower respiratory tract
- To reduce inflammatory and allergic responses the upper respiratory tract
- To correct humidify deficit resulting from inspired air by passing the upper airway during the use of mechanical ventilators in critically ill and post-surgical patients.
Types
- There are three main types of nebulizers:
- Jet: This uses compressed gas to make an aerosol (tiny particles of medication in the air).
- Ultrasonic: This makes an aerosol through high-frequency vibrations. The particles are larger than with a jet nebulizer.
- Mesh: Liquid passes through a very fine mesh to form the aerosol. This kind of nebulizer puts out the smallest particles. It’s also the most expensive.
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