Nebulizer Drug Administration

Breathing · Medicine/Peds · 10–20 min

Delivery of aerosolized medication via nebulizer.

Indications

  • Acute asthma
  • COPD exacerbation
  • Bronchiolitis
  • Croup

Contraindications

  • Severe agitation preventing mask

Equipment

  • Nebulizer chamber
  • Mouthpiece/mask
  • O2 or air 6–8 L/min
  • Drug + saline

Positioning

  • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • Explain risks & complications
  • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • Hand hygiene
  • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • Aseptic technique
  • Sharps safety
  • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/5)

Tap to complete

1. Prepare drug

Correct dose + diluent.

2. Assemble

3. Position

4. Administer

5. Reassess

Immediate complications

  • Tachycardia
  • Tremor
  • Hypokalemia

Delayed complications

  • Paradoxical bronchospasm

Recognition

  • Worsening wheeze

Initial management

  • Stop; reassess

Prevention

  • Correct diluent

Post-procedure observation

  • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • Site inspection
  • Symptom review

Documentation

  • Procedure note
  • Consent
  • Findings

Patient instructions

  • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

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