| Place patient in a comfortable position (preferably sitting up or partially supine, since there is some risk of spillage if the patient is lying flat). |
| Assemble apparatus. |
| Add medication to nebulizer. |
| Use a fill volume of 3 to 6 mL. |
| Attach a compressor or a pressurized gas supply (eg, compressed air or oxygen) with a flow of 6 to 8 L/min. |
| Instruct patient to breathe through the mouth whether using a mask or mouthpiece. If using a mouthpiece, the patient can rest teeth on mouthpiece and close lips around it. |
| Encourage patient to breathe with a slow inspiratory flow and an occasional deep breath. |
| Periodically tap nebulizer to return impacted droplets to reservoir. |
| Stop treatment when the nebulizer sputters despite tapping. |
