Caring for Your Nebulizer

Your nebulizer is vital to your health, so it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning it. Nebulizers should be cleaned regularly to keep surfaces free of germs. Cleaning the machine will also help it last longer. Generally, the directions will tell you to do the following after each use:

 

  1. Remove the mask/mouthpiece and T-shaped part of the cup. Remove the tubing and set it aside. Do not wash or rinse the tubing.
  2. ONCE EVERY DAY wash the mask/mouthpiece and T-shaped part with mild dishwashing soap and warm water.
  3. Run warm water over the mask or mouthpiece for 30 seconds. If possible, use distilled or sterile water for rinsing.
  4. ONCE OR TWICE PER WEEK soak the mask or mouthpiece, and cup in a solution that is one part distilled white vinegar and two parts distilled water. Soak them for 30 minutes. Throw out the vinegar solution after use; do not reuse it. Then rinse the nebulizer parts under warm running water for one minute. If possible, use distilled or sterile water for rinsing.
  5. Shake off excess water. Air-dry on a clean cloth or paper towel.
  6. Put the mask/mouthpiece, T-shaped part, cup, and tubing back together, and connect the device to the compressor. Run the machine for 10 to 20 seconds to dry the inside of the nebulizer.
  7. Disconnect the tubing from the compressor. Store the nebulizer in a resealable plastic bag.
  8. Place the cover over the compressor.


Finally, remember to NEVER put the compressor in water.

References:
Adapted from the National Asthma Education Program Office of Prevention, Education and Control. Teach Your Patients About Asthma: A Clinician's Guide. Bethesda, Md: National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute; October 1992. US Dept of Health and Human Services publication 92-2737.

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