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

Correct dose + diluent.

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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