RT Clinic : Basics of Nebulizer Therapy

Summary

In this RT clinic video, the host demonstrates how to administer nebulizer treatments using a standard nebulizer setup. Key points include assembling the device, adjusting the flow meter to 8 liters per minute, and ensuring at least 3 milliliters of medication for optimal particle size. The video also emphasizes proper breathing techniques, the importance of using a mouthpiece over a mask for better medication delivery, and tips for maintaining nebulizer efficiency. Additionally, a tower nebulizer is introduced for higher dosage treatments, highlighting its benefits for asthmatic patients.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Standard nebulizer treatments are demonstrated, including the setup and use of a generic nebulizer.
• 💊 The importance of using at least 3 milliliters of volume for nebulizer medication is emphasized, with a recommendation not to exceed 6 milliliters.
• 🔍 Nebulized medication is described as having a particle size of 3 to 5 microns, which is crucial for reaching the lower respiratory tract.
• 👃 Breathing through the mouth is crucial during nebulizer treatment, as breathing through the nose can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
• 👁️‍🗨️ The script highlights the need to observe chest excursion and nebulizer medication flow to ensure proper treatment administration.
• 🛑 It's advised to stop the nebulizer treatment when it starts to 'sputter,' indicating that the medication particle size is no longer optimal.
• 🚫 The script discourages the use of 'blow-by' treatments due to their reduced effectiveness in delivering medication.
• 💧 A tip is provided to pre-wet new nebulizers with saline to ensure consistent treatment times.
• 🌡️ The script mentions the use of medical air instead of oxygen for nebulizer treatments to avoid affecting blood gas levels.
• 👩‍⚕️ The benefits of using a mouthpiece over a mask are discussed, with a focus on patient engagement and the delivery of larger medication doses.

Q & A

What is the purpose of a nebulizer?

A nebulizer is used to deliver medication in the form of a fine mist inhaled into the lungs. It's particularly helpful for patients with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.

What is the significance of the baffle in a nebulizer?

The baffle inside a nebulizer helps to break up the medication into small particle sizes, which is crucial for the medication to reach the lower airways effectively.

Why is it important to use at least 3 milliliters of volume when administering nebulizer medication?

Using at least 3 milliliters ensures that the medication is properly nebulized and that the particle size remains within the optimal range of 3 to 5 microns for effective delivery to the lungs.

What is the recommended flow rate for most nebulizer treatments?

The recommended flow rate for most nebulizer treatments is eight liters per minute, although some home compressors might run at a slightly lower rate.

Why is it not advisable to use a nebulizer with less than 3 milliliters or more than 6 milliliters of medication?

Using less than 3 milliliters may result in inadequate medication delivery, while using more than 6 milliliters can affect the particle size and potentially reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

What is the purpose of the reservoir in a nebulizer system?

The reservoir in a nebulizer system allows the patient to inhale a larger amount of medication with each breath, enhancing the efficiency of the treatment.

Why is it important for patients to breathe through their mouth and not their nose when using a nebulizer?

Breathing through the mouth ensures that the nebulized medication is inhaled effectively into the lungs. Breathing through the nose can lead to the medication not being inhaled properly and reduces the treatment's effectiveness.

What is the significance of the 'sputtering' sound in a nebulizer?

The 'sputtering' sound indicates that the nebulizer is running out of medication and the particle size is no longer optimal. It's a signal that the treatment should be stopped.

What is the difference between using a mouthpiece and a mask for nebulizer treatments?

A mouthpiece requires the patient to take an active role in their breathing, which can lead to better medication delivery. A mask can be more comfortable but may not encourage deep breaths as effectively, potentially reducing the treatment's effectiveness.

Why is the 'blow-by' treatment method not recommended?

The 'blow-by' method decreases the amount of medication delivered to the patient and is less effective than using a mouthpiece or mask. It's generally not recommended for optimal medication delivery.