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The MicroAir nebulizer has the abilty to use either a Mask
or a Mouthpiece. Simply remove the mouthpiece, and attached the
mask.
When to use mask versus mouthpiece?
Typically a mask captures more of the aerosol so that the
patient will have a better chance of inhaling it. This is good
for young children, and maybe elderly adults. The mouthpiece is
good for most patients.
General rule of thumb: if doctor or respiratory therapist
requires a mask, provide a mask. Otherwise the mouthpiece should
suffice, with the exceptions noted above.
Blow By Vs. Mask Technique
When it comes to nebulizers parents of very young children only
have two options: the face mask or blow-by technique. Blow-bys
are where the output mist from the nebulizer's vent tube is
directed close to the child's mouth. This technique WASTES
medication, it is not going directly into the child's mouth and
lungs. The Mask Technique sends the medication directly into the
child's mouth and lungs.
Understandably, many children are frightened and
quite uncooperative when it comes to face masks.
Conventional wisdom has held that even when they're screaming
and crying, they're inhaling the medicine so many doctors say
leave the mask on, no matter how terrorized the child is. It's a
controversial topic and one you should discuss with your doctor,
to find a mutually agreeable delivery method. In any case, the
mutually agreeable method should be the one that WORKS.
By the same token, if you can manage to crimp the
nose clip on your child's face mask when delivering a neb that
way, all the better. The idea is to discourage or prevent nasal
breathing, so the maximum amount of meds can make it to the
lungs. Hey, for once, sinus congestion can come in handy!
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