How can I make nebulization easier for me and my child?
Nebulizer treatments have to be used on a regular basis, at least once and sometimes twice a day for the use of controller medications. One of the things that we have found that helps, is get a mask that is properly fitted. An adult nebulizer mask doesn't fit on a child. Second, very often we find that when parents hold their child in their arms to comfort them while the child is using the nebulizer mask, the child finds it easier to use the nebulizer mask. With toddlers, it's very often, and I am not above bribery to make a child happy while they are using the nebulizer. So we will put on, or bribe them with their favourite cartoon while they are receiving the nebulizer so that they associate the use of the nebulizer with something they like to do. The most important thing for parents to know is when the child is crying the nebulizer doesn't work very well because they are actually putting up airway resistance to the medication from the nebulizer. So one thing that many parents have found is that using the nebulizer while the child is sleeping makes it a much easier experience. Bottom line is, parents know their kids. Find out what your kids like so that they associate the nebulizer with things that they like, and then they are more apt to use it.
