P4

LOs:

1)Describe the different types of nebuliser

2)Explain how nebulisers and soft mist inhalers produce an aerosol

3)Understand the advantages and disadvantages of nebulisers and soft mist inhalers

Limitations of pMDIs and DPIs:

• Require a specific technique – not all patients are able to do this:

• Slow and deep breath for pMDIs- asthma attack, in ICU

• Quick and deep breath for DPIs

• 10 second breath hold

• Can’t be used for very large doses

• Need to stop oxygen

• Can’t use DPIs for ventilated patients

Nebulisers:

•Drug contained within a sterile aqueous solution

•Uses an external energy supply (e.g. electricity, compressed air/oxygen) to aerosolise this drug solution

•Aerosol can then be inhaled via a mask or mouthpiece using tidal breathing