Overview

The following instructions explain the use of the equipment, cleaning, and maintenance procedures to be used. These instructions are designed to supplement the instructions provided in the manufacturer's patient guide. You should have received a prescription from your physician for this equipment and for the medication(s) which are to be used in this machine. Please be certain that your medication prescriptions have been filled and that you have the necessary supplies you need to effectively administer this therapy.

Before Treatment

• Find a clean, quiet place where the treatment can be taken comfortably.
• Plug nebulizer unit into a properly grounded outlet. (If using a unit that has an AC/DC rechargeable gel cell battery feature you must select the power source desired. Consult the manufacturer's Patient Guide for the proper AC/DC battery guidelines.)
• Wash hands.
• Assemble the equipment and make sure the tubing is fastened properly and free of kinks.
• Add correct dosage of medications to the nebulizer.

During the Treatment

• Turn on the nebulizer.
• Have patient in a sitting position, if able.
• Have patient take slow deep breaths, hold the breath for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly. Breathing slower and deeper will help distribute the medication better.
• Relax and take a much time as necessary.
• Continue until there is no medication left in the handheld nebulizer.

Cleaning and Disinfection Procedure

After Each Treatment

• Remove nebulizer mask or t-piece and mouthpiece.
• Disassemble nebulizer chamber by turning counterclockwise.
• Shake off any excess water and allow parts to drain on a clean towel.
• DO NOT WIPE DRY!
• Keep clean equipment in a dust free area.

The nebulizer has been designed to break up a liquid medication into particles small enough to be inhaled as a mist into your lungs. If the nebulizers parts and related supplies are not cleaned and disinfected, it is possible to carry germs directly into your lungs. Therefore, you must wash and disinfect your equipment on a daily basis.

Daily

• Disassemble nebulizer into single parts.
• Wash in liquid dishwashing detergent and rinse well with hot water.
• Using a clean container or bowl, mix a solution of white vinegar and water to disinfect the nebulizer parts. Mix one-part white distilled vinegar to three parts warm tap water (¼ cup white distilled vinegar to ¾ cup warm tap water).
• Soak the disassembled nebulizer parts in the vinegar/water solution for 60 minutes.
• Rinse with hot tap water and allow parts to air-dry on a clean link free surface.

Weekly

• Unplug the nebulizer unit from outlet and wipe outside of unit with a damp cloth.

Maintenance / Filter Changes

Change the filter every six months or when the filter turns grey in color.

Troubleshooting

• If the machine does not turn on
  • Check that the power cord is plugged in.
  • Make sure there is power to the outlet that you are using.
• If there is no mist noted
  • Disconnect the tubing from the nebulizer unit
  • Turn the machine on and check to see if you feel airflow at the outlet port
    • If there is no airflow noted call MedCare
    • If you feel airflow the nebulizer unit is working correctly.
  • Check for proper assembly of the nebulizer unit by reviewing the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Replace with a new nebulizer, if necessary.

Important Points to Remember

• Follow these instructions at all times.
• Make sure your home is always safe and clean.
• Keep the nebulizer unit and the handheld nebulizer clean at all times. Handheld nebulizers are to be used more than once.
• DO NOT make change in the way you use the equipment without a physician's order.
• Report any changes in condition to your physician.
• Give the medications prescribed by the physician at the proper times and in the correct dosages.
• DO NOT use medications if they are discolored.
• Keep medications safely stored and away from children.

Important Safety Requirements

• Never use this unit if it has a damaged cord or plug; never use an extension cord when operating this unit.
• Always operate the nebulizer on a hard surface, like a table. Do not block the air opening by using it on a soft surface, such as a bed or couch.
• Never use the unit while bathing or around water. Do not place unit where it can fall or be pulled into a tub or sink.
• Never place unit in or drop into water. Do not reach for a unit that has fallen into water. Unplug unit immediately.
• Do not modify the equipment in any way. Maintenance must be performed only by a certified repair person or authorized dealer.

Should your equipment not function properly, call MedCare.

Should you have medical questions or concerns related to the effectiveness or response to this therapy, contact your physician.