Parts of a Nebulizer and their Function

KNOW YOUR NEBULISER PARTS

Nebulisation is done with the help of a nebuliser system or nebuliser kit. Jet nebulisers (which are the most widely used nebulisers, be it in homes, clinics or hospitals) consist of four main parts.

1. Compressor
The compressor is the part that fuels the working of the nebuliser system. It is a device that pumps the ambient/outside air forcefully through the nozzle that is attached to the tubing. The compressor is connected to a power source.

2. Tubing
The tubing delivers the pressurised air from the compressor to the medication cup, thereby enabling conversion of the liquid medicine into an aerosol or mist form.

3. Medication cup
This is the unit into which the liquid medicine is poured. In this cup, the liquid medicine is converted into aerosol or mist by the pressurised air pumped by the compressor through the tubing.

4. Face mask/Mouthpiece
The face mask or the mouthpiece is the part that is used by the patient and through which the medicine mist can be inhaled. If a face mask is used, ensure that it fits tightly without any gaps. In the case of a mouthpiece, ensure that the mouthpiece is held firmly between the teeth with the lips covering it completely.

5. Nebuliser filter
Nebuliser filters are an important part of the nebuliser system. Nebulisers compress and pump the ambient air or oxygen, which helps convert the liquid medicine into an aerosolised medication. This air, before entering the medication cup, passes through the filter, which helps to remove particulate particles in the compressed air. The filter should be checked regularly and replaced when needed.

You should know about all the parts of your nebuliser and how to assemble them, maintain them and when to replace them so as to optimise the effectiveness of nebulisation.