Nebuliser Training for parents and carers Carer skills passport Nebuliser Training for parents and carers Jenny Bayliss Specialist Nurse

Aims To know what a nebuliser is To understand why, when and how a nebuliser is given To know how to set up and use a nebuliser machine To know how to look after and clean a nebuliser machine To know when to get help

Nebuliser – what is it? A machine that turns a liquid into a vapour that can be inhaled directly into the lungs. Through the nose and mouth or tracheostomy to help breathing and keeping the lungs healthy

Why do complex children have respiratory problems? Children with complex physical needs often have respiratory problems due to Non-mobile Poor cough and airway clearance Problems with swallowing and aspiration Muscle weakness and scoliosis

How do I know there's a respiratory problem? Recurrent chest infections Noisy breathing (including wheeze) Working hard to breath Poor colour Not maintaining saturations Coughing Thick, sticky secretions Secretions that are no longer white or clear

Prevention is key in supporting a healthy Respiratory System A respiratory assessment will be carried out by a physiotherapist and preventative measures put in place, such as Chest physiotherapy Postural changes (standing frame, tummy time etc) Nebulisers Cough assist Suction

Different types of nebulisers

Giving a Nebuliser It’s a medicine and should be prescribed The medicine needs to be nebulised using air or oxygen (if prescribed) The nebuliser machines already generate air pressure

0.9% Normal Saline is the most common nebuliser used for loosening secretions A steroid can be given for an inflamed, wheezy or tight chest to open the airways

Antibiotics are prescribed to treat chest infections NB Precautions should be taken when giving antibiotic nebulisers (filter used, ventilate room, wear mask, pregnancy)

Setting up a nebuliser Demonstration and practice of setting up a nebuliser and switching on the machine

Any questions?