Today is our topic of discussion Steam Inhalation.
Steam Inhalation
Steam Inhalation
Inhalation is defined as the drawing of air or other vapors into lungs through mouth or nose (Fig. 17.6).
Purpose
- To relieve inflammation of the mucus membrane in acute colds and in sinusitis
- To relieve irritation in bronchitis and whooping cough by moistening
- To provide antiseptic action on the respiratory tract
- To provide warm and moist air following operation, e.g. tracheotomy
- To soften thick, tenacious mucus and relieve coughing.
Types of Inhalations
- Dry-Inhalation: ether, chloroform, nitrous, oxide, menthol, eucalyptus and spirit ammonia.
- Water moist inhalation: plain steam, tincture benzoic,
- menthol in alcohol and oil of eucalyptus solution.
- Indication of Tincture
- Benzoin Inhalation
- Purulent bronchitis
- Bronchiectasis
- Lung abscess
- Common cold and sore throat.
General Instructions
- The temperature of the water should be remaining between 120 and 160°F or 54.4 and 76.7°C
- Water in the inhaler should remain just below the spout to avoid scalding
- The spout of the inhaler must be placed in such a way
- that the patient cannot touch it or put his face too near
- Keep the patient warm and prevent drought before. during and after the inhalation When volatile groups like menthols are used to keep his
- eyes closed to prevent the drug irritating the conjunctiva
- Observe the patient closely throughout the procedure.
Preliminary Assessment
- The doctors order for any specific instructions
- General condition and diagnosis of the patient
- Self-care ability to follow instructions
- Type, duration and medication of inhalation
- Articles available in the unit.
Preparation of the Patient and Environment
- Explain the procedure to the patient
- Allow the patient to empty to the bladder and towels if necessary.
- Given bedpan or urinal to a bedridden patient
- Provide Fowler’s position with back rest, cardiac table and extra pillows
- Close windows, doors and put off fan to prevent drought
- Provide sputum cup within the reach of the patient
- Provide a face towel to remove sweat from face during inhalation
- Mouth piece should be boiled and cooled before use
- Arrange the articles at the bedside.
Equipment
- A tray containing
- Nelson’s inhaler in a large bowel
- Face towel and patient towel-1
- Bath blanket
- Tincture benzoin.
- Teaspoon, dropper
- Kettle with boiling water
- Gauze pieces
- Cotton swabs
- Swab sticks
- Kidney tray and paper bag.