A nebuliser is a medical device that converts liquid into droplets of aerosol so that they may be inhaled. Using either oxygen, compressed air or ultrasonic power, the machine turns liquid medication into aerosol by breaking up the medical solutions.
At the moment, the use of nebulisers is on the decline because of concerns over their relative lack of efficiency and efficacy compared with other devices intended for the delivery of drugs through inhalation. Nevertheless they remain a favourite of many patients and are still used in many circumstances.
There is a huge range of nebulisers for use in the home and in medical centres in emergency situations. However, the medical industry tends to favour ultrasonic nebuliser since the average jet nebuliser wastes a relatively large amount of the drug.
The devices are used for the treatment of chronic pulmonary disorders such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diesease) and Cystic Fibrosis.
In order to ensure that your nebuliser works as efficiently as possible, make sure that it is regularly cleaned and maintained. If a nebuliser is used regularly then it should be properly cleaned on a daily basis, if it is used only intermittently then it should be cleaned after each use. Pieces such as the mask, mouthpiece and nebuliser chamber should all be disconnected and washed in warm water mixed with deterrgent. Let them dry over night. When reattached, allow the nebuliser to work for a few seconds to a minute before putting in and medication.
Parts of the machine which are disposable should be regularly changed. Change tubes, masks, mouthpieces and tubing every three or four months and ensure that the nebuliser is serviced by the manufacturer once a year.