Use of Nebulizers in the Clinic

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NEBULISATION IN THE CLINIC SETTING

	DO's perform nebulisation in an airborne infection isolation room(AIIR), commonly called as a negative-pressure room, whenever feasible, or in a portable anteroom [Anteroom is a sealed space with air filtration to remove harmful particles or pathogens from the air].		DON'T perform nebulisation in a room from which air circulates to other areas. This will aid in minimising exposure risks for the healthcare workers (HCWs).
	DO's put up a notice stating‘CAUTION: Nebulisation Ongoing’ outside the room where nebulisation is being conducted to restrict the entry of people.		DON'T allow multiple HCWs in the same room.
	DO's wash hands thoroughly.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers with greater than 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol or use of an antimicrobial soap.		DON'T enter the room where nebulisation is being conducted unless it is very urgent.
	DO's Wear appropriate personal protection equipment (PPE) with safety accessories such as eye protection, face mask, gloves, face shield, shoe and head covers, and gown to avoid possible contamination through aerosol generation.		DON’T Sit/stand too close to the patient while nebulisation is being conducted. Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from the patient undergoing nebulisation.
	DO's Leave the room vacant with the door closed for 30 minutes after the patient has vacated the room post-nebulisation. Sanitise the room after nebulisation before letting others enter.		DON'T Reuse the equipment and nebuliser accessories unless they have been washed thoroughly using liquid/hospital-grade disinfectants such as isopropanol (70%) or hydrogen peroxide (3%)..