Fighting monsters with asthmatic babies at home

This is the 4419th article of Da Yi Xiao Hu

In recent years, for babies with asthma, home nebulization has gradually replaced the daily "check-in" at the hospital and become a new choice for parents. Because medium- and long-term nebulization inhalation can effectively control children's asthma symptoms and reduce acute attacks, especially for the early and long-term prevention and treatment of infant asthma. Home nebulization can be done in a familiar environment, with high compliance, which can reduce the risk of cross-infection, and parents can also free up more time and energy.

Home nebulization may seem simple, but it actually has a lot of secrets. Let’s take a closer look at how to help asthmatic babies use nebulization at home to “fight monsters” correctly.

A safe and comfortable environment is a good "battlefield"

Irritating gases and dust can induce or aggravate asthma. Do not place allergenic items such as flowers and paints indoors, and avoid smoking indoors! Wash and expose quilts and velvet carpets frequently to reduce the breeding of dust mites. It is recommended to use wet methods or vacuum cleaners to clean the room to avoid flying dust. It is not recommended to keep pets. Open windows for ventilation before and after atomization to reduce the retention of diffused liquid in the air.

The "Handy Weapon" Trilogy

A. Choose a suitable atomizer pump

The atomization equipment on the market can be roughly divided into the following categories according to their functions: jet atomization pump (compression type or oxygen driven type), ultrasonic atomization pump, filter type atomization pump, etc. Most households use air compression atomization pumps. If there is a need for oxygen supply, oxygen driven type can be selected. It is recommended to purchase from designated professional medical equipment institutions.

B. Convenient home testing method for atomizers

You can use clean water for atomization and observe the size of the atomized particles. If they appear in the shape of water droplets when facing a mirror, it means that the atomizer is clogged and needs to be replaced.

C. Correct use of atomizer

The small atomizer is simple but not simplistic. When installing, the semicircular piece on the upper part should be aligned with the direction of the mouthpiece and tightened in a clockwise direction. The mask should completely cover the mouth and nose and fit the face. Keeping a "distance" from it does not produce "beauty", but will cause the liquid medicine to diffuse and not be inhaled into the lungs. People over 5 years old can try oral atomization. One device per person, rinse and dry with running water after use, or disinfect with designated disinfectant, and do not soak in boiling water.

Correct use of atomization equipment

Nebulizer inhalation method

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Key point: Keep your airway open!

Experts recommend that the patient should maintain three vertical positions during the nebulization process, namely, vertical sitting position, vertical head position, and vertical nebulizer can position, to prevent the liquid medicine from pouring out and keep the airway open, which is conducive to the drug reaching the lesion site. The baby can be placed in a semi-recumbent position, side position, or in a holding position.

Strictly guard against the most serious "backlash" --- suffocation caused by sputum obstruction! Real-time observation is required before and during atomization, and the respiratory tract should be cleared in time. Older babies can be guided to cough up sputum on their own. If there is a lot of sputum and it is difficult to cough it up, try changing the body position and use the hollow palm to effectively tap the back from bottom to top to help the discharge of sputum and the inhalation of medicine.

Atomization posture

"Cup Grip" Hollow Palm

Practical experience tips--Precautions for home nebulization

1. If the baby cries violently, nebulization inhalation should be stopped to prevent vomiting and suffocation; it is recommended not to eat within half an hour before and after nebulization.

2. Do not use oily facial cream to prevent the drug from adhering to the face; rinse your mouth and wash your face after atomization. Infants and young children can drink an appropriate amount of water to thoroughly remove residual drug solution and prevent adverse reactions such as acne, fungal stomatitis, hoarseness or respiratory discomfort.

3. During the nebulization, observe whether the complexion and breathing are normal. If you feel uncomfortable, please stop the nebulization inhalation immediately. After the treatment, observe whether it is effective. If the effect is not good or the symptoms worsen, seek medical attention in time.

Diet and nutrition during home nebulization

During the nebulization period, you should eat a diet that is easily digestible, light, and high in fiber. Try to avoid the intake of allergens, such as seafood and other high-protein foods. Cold drinks and carbonated drinks are prohibited to avoid irritation, inducing or aggravating asthma. Scientifically supplement nutrition, and avoid blindly taking various health products to avoid conflicts with the nature of drugs. Breastfeeding is a protective factor for children suffering from asthma and asthma-like symptoms. It is recommended that mothers breastfeed.

Pay attention!

Dear friends, please note that home nebulization treatment must also be carried out strictly according to the doctor's instructions. The dosage cannot be changed or the medication can be stopped without authorization. If there are any abnormalities, you must go to the hospital for treatment in time and follow up and evaluate on time.

At the same time, we should pay attention to the psychological needs of babies, increase physical exercise appropriately on a daily basis, improve their own immunity, and arm ourselves together to defeat the "monster"!

Written by: Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shanghai Children's Hospital

Xiao Yanshang, Head Nurse

Graphic design: Nephrology Department, Shanghai Children's Hospital

Nurse Cheng Le