Nebulizer for Asthma (cont.)
How do I care for my home nebulizer?
Cleaning
Cleaning and disinfecting your home nebulizer equipment is simple and very
important. Proper care prevents infection. Cleaning should be done in a dust-
and smoke-free area away from open windows.
Follow these instructions when cleaning your equipment:
- After each treatment, rinse the nebulizer cup thoroughly with warm water,
shake off excess water, and let air dry. At the end of each day, the nebulizer
cup, mask or mouthpiece should be washed in warm soapy water using a mild
detergent, rinsed thoroughly, and allowed to air dry. You do not need to clean
the compressor tubing.
- Every third day, after washing your equipment, disinfect the equipment
using either a vinegar/water solution or the disinfectant solution your
equipment supplier suggests. To use the vinegar solution, mix 1/2 cup white
vinegar with 1 1/2 cups of water. Soak the equipment for 20 minutes and rinse
well under a steady stream of water. Shake off the excess water and allow to
air dry on a paper towel. Always allow the equipment to completely dry before
storing in a plastic, zippered bag.
Storing
- Cover the compressor with a clean cloth when not in use. Keep it clean by
wiping it with a clean, damp cloth as needed.
- Do not put the air compressor on the floor either for treatments or for
storage.
- Medications should be stored in a cool, dry place. Check them often. If
they have changed color or formed crystals, throw them away and replace them
with new ones.
Other tips
- Always have an extra nebulizer cup and mask or mouthpiece in case you need
it.
- Check the air compressor's filter as directed. Replace or clean according
to the directions from your equipment supplier.
Reviewed by
the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine.
Edited by James E. Gerace, MD, December 1, 2006.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2005
Last Editorial Review: 12/19/2007
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