How to use a piston nebulizer correctly? Asthma aerosol therapy operation guide

1. Composition and principle of piston nebulizer

• Main components

Compressor host: provides high-pressure airflow to atomize the liquid medicine.

Atomizer cup: holds the liquid medicine and converts it into inhalable tiny particles through airflow.

Mask or mouthpiece: used to inhale atomized medicine (children are recommended to use masks, and adults can use mouthpieces).

Tube: connects the compressor and the nebulizer cup to deliver airflow.

• Working principle

The compressor generates high-speed airflow, which enters the nebulizer cup through the catheter. The liquid medicine is crushed into tiny particles (usually 1~5 microns) under the action of the airflow, forming an inhalable aerosol that reaches the respiratory tract and lungs directly.

2. Correct use steps

• Preparation before use

Wash your hands: avoid contaminating the medicine or atomizer components.

Inspect the equipment: Make sure the compressor, catheter, nebulizer cup, mask/mouthpiece are intact.

Preparation: Pour the liquid medicine into the nebulizer cup (usually 2~5mL) as directed by the doctor, and avoid exceeding the maximum scale.

If dilution is required, use sterile saline, not tap water or distilled water.

• Assembly and operation

Connect the catheter: Connect one end of the catheter to the compressor and the other end to the bottom of the nebulizer cup.

Install the mask/mouthpiece: It is recommended that children use a mask (close to the face) and adults can use a mouthpiece (cover the lips and exhale through the nose).

Start nebulization:

Turn on the compressor switch and observe whether the nebulizer cup produces uniform aerosol.

Take slow and deep breaths (press the mask when inhaling and move it slightly when exhaling), and avoid rapid breathing.

End of treatment:

Turn off the power after the liquid medicine is nebulized (no aerosol is produced).

It usually takes 10~15 minutes for children and about 5~10 minutes for adults.

• Cleaning after use

Rinse immediately: Disassemble the nebulizer cup, mask/mouthpiece, and rinse the remaining liquid medicine with warm water.

Disinfection every week: Use special disinfectant or boil water for 5 minutes (high temperature resistant parts).

Dry and store: Place in a clean and ventilated place to avoid bacterial growth.

3. Precautions

Drug selection: Only use the nebulized drugs prescribed by the doctor, do not change or mix the drugs by yourself.

Posture recommendation: Sitting is the best, avoid lying on your back to prevent the liquid from spilling.

Children use: The effect is poor when crying, and you can operate gently while sleeping.

Abnormal handling: If the machine is noisy, uneven atomization or drug leakage, stop using it immediately and check.

4. FAQ

Q1: Why is there so little liquid during atomization?

Check whether the catheter is bent or blocked, whether the atomizer cup is tightened, and whether the liquid is sufficient.

Q2: The effect of the atomizer has deteriorated after long use?

It may be that the filter is blocked (replace the filter) or the atomizer is aging (need to replace the atomizer cup).

Q3: Can multiple people share the same atomizer?

Not recommended! Masks/mouthpieces must be used by individuals to avoid cross infection.

5. Daily maintenance and care

Maintenance of compressor: Clean the air intake filter every month (lightly brush or rinse) to prevent dust from affecting performance.

Regular replacement: The atomizer cup is generally replaced every 6 to 12 months. The atomizer particles will become larger after aging.

Storage environment: Avoid high temperature, humidity or direct sunlight to extend the service life.