Medical nebulisation is a process that transforms liquid medication into a fine mist for direct inhalation into the respiratory system. This method delivers drugs efficiently to the lungs, acting swiftly on affected tissues. It offers a targeted approach in respiratory care for individuals with breathing difficulties.
Understanding Nebulisation
Nebulisation converts liquid medication into tiny airborne particles. A nebuliser machine uses compressed air, high-frequency vibrations, or a vibrating mesh to break down the liquid into a fine mist. The aerosolized medication is then delivered through a mouthpiece or mask for inhalation.
The mist reaches deep within the lungs, including the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli. This direct pathway allows rapid absorption into lung tissues, offering quicker symptom relief than oral medications processed by the digestive system. This targeted delivery also minimizes systemic side effects by concentrating the drug where needed.
Medical Conditions Benefiting from Nebulisation
Nebulisation is prescribed for respiratory conditions where direct lung medication delivery is advantageous. Asthma, with airway inflammation and narrowing, benefits from nebulised bronchodilators that open constricted airways during exacerbations. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a progressive lung disease, also improves airflow and symptom management with nebulised therapies, especially during acute flare-ups.
Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder causing thick, sticky mucus buildup in the lungs, uses nebulisation to deliver medications that thin secretions and combat infections. Conditions like bronchitis, inflammation of the bronchial tubes, and other acute respiratory infections, such as bronchiolitis in children, can be treated effectively with anti-inflammatory agents, bronchodilators, or antibiotics delivered directly to inflamed or infected areas.
Types of Nebulisers and Their Mechanisms
Various nebuliser types are available, each with a distinct mechanism to produce inhalable mist. Jet nebulisers, also known as compressor nebulisers, are the most common type. They use a compressed air source, forcing air through a narrow tube to create negative pressure that draws liquid medication from a reservoir. This shears the liquid into fine droplets. Jet nebulisers are robust and versatile, nebulizing most medication formulations, though they can be noisy and somewhat bulky.
Ultrasonic nebulisers generate mist through high-frequency vibrations from a piezoelectric crystal. These vibrations are transmitted through water to the medication, atomizing it into an aerosol. Ultrasonic models are quieter and can deliver medication more quickly than jet nebulisers. However, the heat generated during this process may degrade certain heat-sensitive medications, and particle sizes are slightly larger.
Mesh nebulisers are a newer, more efficient technology. They use a fine mesh or membrane with thousands of microscopic holes. Vibrating the mesh forces liquid medication through these tiny apertures, creating a fine, uniform mist. These devices are highly portable, operate almost silently, and are efficient in medication delivery, producing the smallest particles for deeper lung deposition. Their advanced design makes them more expensive.
Practical Guide to Using and Maintaining a Nebuliser
Correct nebuliser use ensures effective medication delivery. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent contamination. Measure prescribed liquid medication and pour it into the nebuliser’s medicine cup. Connect tubing from the air compressor to the nebuliser cup, then attach the mouthpiece or face mask.
Once assembled, sit upright to maximize lung capacity. Place the mouthpiece firmly between teeth, sealing lips, or position the face mask securely over nose and mouth. Turn on the compressor, and a fine mist will appear. Breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth, holding each breath for a few seconds if comfortable, then exhale normally. Continue this pattern until the medication cup is empty, which takes 5 to 15 minutes, indicated by a sputtering sound.
Proper cleaning and maintenance are important for hygiene and device longevity.
Daily Cleaning
After each use, disconnect the tubing and disassemble the medicine cup, mouthpiece, or mask. Wash parts thoroughly with warm, soapy water, then rinse completely with sterile or distilled water. Allow components to air dry on a clean towel.
Weekly Disinfection
Reusable parts can be disinfected by boiling them for 5-10 minutes or soaking them in a solution of one part distilled white vinegar to three parts warm water for 30-60 minutes, followed by thorough rinsing and air drying.
Compressor Unit Maintenance
Wipe the compressor unit clean with a damp cloth. Check and replace its air filter as recommended by the manufacturer, every six months.
Important Considerations for Nebulisation
While nebulisation is a safe and effective treatment, important considerations exist for patient safety and optimal outcomes. Patients should use only medication prescribed by their healthcare provider, as unprescribed substances or mixed medications can be unsafe. Dosage and frequency should also adhere to medical instructions.
Mild side effects can occur. These include rapid heartbeat, jitteriness, anxiety, headache, or throat irritation. If more serious symptoms develop, such as chest pain, worsening shortness of breath, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat, seek medical attention. Consult a healthcare professional if concerns arise regarding symptoms, medication, or equipment function.