Nebulizer accessories are specific parts that are especially designed to provide the best possible breathing treatment for nebulizer users treating lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis and asthma. The nebulizer accessories include the compressor, a cup for the liquefied medication, a face mask or mouthpiece, tubing and tubing connectors, filters, carrying cases, and rechargeable batteries.
What is a Nebulizer?
Nebulizers are breathing machines utilized for the treatment of various respiratory illnesses and disease. They employ liquid medications that are administered in a misted form directly into the lungs through a face mask or mouthpiece. Nebulizers come in two basic types; ultrasonic and atomizer jet. Also known as a mesh nebulizer, ultrasonic models utilize high frequency sound waves to deliver the medication into the lungs. Atomizer jet models, also known as compressor nebulizers, rely on an aerosol compressor to vaporize the medication for breathing treatments.
While all nebulizers deliver breathable medications, there are several styles to choose from. Both the ultrasonic and atomizer jet systems are available in either portable or tabletop designs. Portable nebulizers are smaller and can be used anywhere as they are battery powered, while tabletop units are intended for home usage as they require an electrical outlet for operation. All nebulizers have specific parts and accessories especially designed to provide the most optimal breathing treatment experience for the individual user.
Nebulizer Parts
It is important for users to understand how their nebulizers work, and know the various parts that make up their breathing machines. Always read through the manufacturer’s complete instructions before using a nebulizer, and do follow the maintenance and care guidelines to ensure the utmost efficiency and longest life of the device.
Compressor: As the basic foundation of the nebulizer, the compressor pumps the air that creates the breathable, medicated mist.
Cup: The liquified medication is placed into this cup or reservoir before it is atomized.
Face Mask/Mouthpiece: Worn on the face or mouth, face masks and mouthpieces provide the opening from which the mist is inhaled.
Tubing and Tubing Connectors: Tubing connectors attach the tubing from the compressor to the nebulizer cup to deliver the air that will atomize the medication.
Nebulizer Accessories
While nebulizer kits often contain all of the parts and accessories a user requires, there are parts and accessories that are also sold separately. These individual purchases may be required to replace damaged or worn out parts, or may be needed for unique user requirements.
Face Mask: Various types of nebulizer face masks are available for those uncomfortable with the usual mouthpiece included. Masks fit over the nose and mouth, with several designs to choose from to fulfill individual preferences and unique concerns.
Filters: Nebulizer filters should be checked and changed on a regular basis. This helps to ensure that the misted air stays clean, free of any of the normal air contaminates. If the nebulizer filter is dirty, these air particle contaminates will ruin the compressor.
Replacement Power Adapter: Since tabletop nebulizers require an electrical source to operate, it is a good idea to keep a second power adapter on hand to ensure uninterrupted service should the original become worn out or damaged.
Rechargeable Battery Pack: Used for portable nebulizers, rechargeable battery packs guarantee that the user always has power to use the nebulizer at all times.
Carrying Case: Specifically designed for use with portable nebulizers, carrying cases help to protect the machine while traveling, and often highlight pockets to hold mouthpieces, face masks and other nebulizer parts and accessories.
Rehabmart is pleased to offer a comprehensive selection of superior quality nebulizer accessories from premier vendors in the industry that include Independence Medical, Drive Medical, McKesson Medical-Surgical, Responsive Respiratory Inc., DeVilbiss, and more.
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO
ck