Inhaled medication is most commonly given through the mouth using an inhaler.
An inhaler with a spacer or a nebulizer but also includes nasal sprays and nose
drops. There are many different types of inhalers including metered dose inhalers
and dry powder inhalers. Most often, inhalers are used by older
children who can tell you how they work, but always be sure to review the package
insert and medication information so you know the right way for the child to use
it. Here are some additional principles to follow when using inhalers. Some
inhalers come with a cap so remove it and then check the mouthpiece for
foreign objects before using. Have the child breathe according to the package
instructions. If the child gets two or more puffs, make sure you know how long
to wait before giving another puff. Some children will want to take the
medication quickly and won't use the right breathing techniques, so always
watch the child while he takes the medication and have them wait the
instructed amount of time before taking another puff. Most metered dose inhalers
are only good for a certain number of puffs and come with a counter. Be sure to
check the counter every time you administer a metered dose inhaler so
you'll know when it needs to be replaced. If an inhaler is not used correctly, much
of the medicine may not end up in the lungs. Using a spacer can help. A spacer
is used to help the child get the full dose of medication by holding it in the
chamber long enough so the child can breathe it in with multiple breaths.
Follow the instructions for giving medication using the inhaler with spacer,
since all spacers are slightly different, and be sure to have the parent or
healthcare provider show you how to use the child's inhaler
with the spacer.
Some children may have a hard time using an inhaler correctly, so they get inhaled
medication using a nebulizer machine. A nebulizer machine forces air through a
solution of medication to create a medicated mist. The child then uses a
face mask or mouthpiece to breathe in the mist. Using a nebulizer machine is
not difficult but it does take practice to learn how to put the parts together.
Have the child's parent demonstrate how to assemble it. All nebulizer machines
come with directions. Read them carefully before using. Here are some general
guidelines you will use regardless of the type of machine. Check to make sure
you have all of the nebulizer parts. Turn on the machine to make sure it works.
Most medication used in a nebulizer comes in a single dose vial. Sometimes you may
be required to administer two medications through the nebulizer. If
this is the case, be sure to check the written medication consent form or
individual healthcare plan for instructions regarding combining
medications. Watch the child during the entire treatment to make sure he gets
all the medication. Many parents will supply a nebulizer machine to be used by
their child. The nebulizer should be labeled with the child's first and last
names and should only be used by that child, but your program may have a
nebulizer machine that is not labeled for a specific child. Two or more
children can share the machine if it is not labeled for single use only. However,
each child must have his own tubing, medicine cup, and mouthpiece or facemask
that is kept in a separate labelled bag. Whether you've given medication by
inhaler or nebulizer, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions
for keeping them clean after each use. This prevents the spread of germs or
giving a wrong dose due to the build up of medication. And remember, never put the
metered dose inhaler canister in water.
Medication can also be breathed into the body through the nose. Nasal medication
comes in drops and spray. Because most children find the sensation unpleasant
giving nasal medication can be challenging
so keep the age of the child in mind and try to make the experience as easy as
you can. In addition to the instructions follow these principles to give inhaled
nasal medication. It's a good idea to have the child blow his nose or wipe
away any visible mucus. Let the child know he may taste the drops or spray.
Positioning the child's head properly helps make sure he gets the medication
correctly, so tilt his head back slightly. Unless otherwise instructed, gently push
up on the tip of the child's nose so you can see the nostrils and put the dropper
or sprayer tip just a little into the nose. It's best to have an infant lie
down to administer nose drops. Don't forget to plug the other nostril as you
give the dose so the child can breathe in the medication correctly, and remember,
to avoid contamination wipe off the dropper or sprayer tip after giving the
dose. Your instructor will give you an opportunity to practice giving inhaled
medication.