Aerosol Therapy Research Paper

Aerosolizing drugs is a common form of therapy used to treat inflammation in airways, bronchospasms, manage diseases, improve pulmonary functions and aid in mucosal clearance. Aerosol therapy is delivered through a wide variety of devices and amongst many different age groups. Pediatric patients (infants and children) is a patient population who receives this type of therapy often. Aerosol delivery is a type of therapy that differs between adults and children, a few reasons being: the anatomy of a child differs from an adult; being that it is smaller, the child may not be old enough to understand what is being asked of them, and if the child does understand the situation, they may not be compliant due to being scared or rejecting the treatment. The article discussed why choosing a delivery system
Blow-by therapy involves using a gas powered jet nebulizer and attaching a mask, T-piece, or piece of tubing to one end and blocking the other end, making sure it is facing the patient and nearby their face. This allows for the aerosolized medication to be inhaled around them. A jet nebulizer can also be used with tubing and a compressor where the therapist can use a mouth piece, mask, or face tent and is a commonly used delivery system for younger patients. A metered-dose inhaler is a pre-measured dose of medication that is delivered through a handheld device, often accompanied by a valve holding chamber. The valve holding chamber allows for the child to take multiple inhalations without the medication escaping. Continuous nebulization is used for when a patient is in constant need for a medication. If this is a necessity to a patient, it is often chosen because it is easier for the child and the therapist rather than coming and going every couple of hours. Noninvasive respiratory support is often used in children when trying to avoid intubation. Multiple delivery devices are offered including a high flow nasal cannula and different positive pressure