Nursing Practical Guideline: Steam inhalation

Steam inhalation:

Introduction

a)     Inhalation means breathing air or vapour into the lungs through the nose or mouth.

b)    A substance such as ammonia may be inhaled in the treatment of fainting.

c)     Amyl nitrate may be inhaled to relieve angina (pain in the heart).

d)    Steam inhalation is administered for general (systemic) effect, more often.

e)     Steam inhalations are given for local effect.

Purpose:

a)     To relieve the symptoms of cold and sinusitis caused by inflammation and conjestion of mucous membrane

b)    To lose mucus and relieve coughing.

c)     To warm and moisten the air to relieve dyspnoea and irritation in air passages.

d)    For antiseptic effect.

Required articles:

a) Nelson inhaler

b)Jug

c) Steam tent

Nelson' s inhaler method:

a) The inhaler has a glass mouthpiece passing through the cork of the inhaler and an air inlet at the side.

b)Prepare the patient and get his co-operation. Protect him from cold air. Have him comfortably seated with a bed table in front.

c) Warm the inhaler with a little hot water and pour the water out.

d)Pour the boiled water below the air inlet.

e) Add the drug ordered.

f)  Cork the inhaler

g) Turn the mouthpiece away from the air inlet.

h)Wrap the inhaler in flannel or a towel and place it in a small tray or basin.

i)   Take it to the bedside together with a towel and gauze piece.

j)   Wrap the piece of gauze around the mouthpiece of the inhaler.

k)Place the inhaler in front of the patient and ask him to keep his mouth in the mouthpiece and breathe in to receive the steam and breath out removing his lips from the mouthpiece.

l)   Continue the treatment for 15 to 20 minutes.

m)  Wipe the patients face and keep him warm and in the same room for at least an hour.

n)Wash the mouthpiece and boil it. Wash the inhaler and replace all the articles.

o)Record the procedure and effect on the patient.