Connect
← Return to Cleaning + disinfecting nebulizer and aerobica
Discussion
Cleaning + disinfecting nebulizer and aerobica
MAC & Bronchiectasis | Last Active: Aug 28, 2023 | Replies (107)Comment receiving replies
I rinse my neb cup parts in Berkey filtered water (MAC sterile) and then put in wide mouth mason jar of 70% alcohol, shake it and either keep it in there til next use or lift pieces out w tongs and air dry. On the NJH web site they say to use 70% alcohol to sterilize the areobika/vibrator devices.
I do the same with my vPEP device which I rarely use as I find positional drainage with huff coughing works just as well and nothing to clean!!
I use a mask instead of mouth piece and rinse it with the sterile water and then dose it w alcohol.
Replies to "I rinse my neb cup parts in Berkey filtered water (MAC sterile) and then put in..."
cate123456 will you tell me the company that you bought your mask . Name of mask. I have a mask bit it does not fit well and I am loosing too much meds before they enter my mouth. I would like to buy a good mask that fits. I have copious amounts of mucus and my jaw gets sore from holding the mouth piece.
Connect
@cate123456 @kathyhg @cavlover @303wendy
Good morning everyone. I am going to say something here that will have some on this forum unhappy, but bear with me. If you are already concerned about keeping your equipment clean and doing periodic sterilization, you are well ahead of half the population. Studies of CF and COPD patients show that half or fewer routinely clean and disinfect their nebulizer, CPAPs and other devices.
The biggest challenge in living with MAC and Bronchiectasis is learning to do the best we can to minimize risks while still having a life. When I was first diagnosed, and very ill, we stayed home & limited contact with everyone for fear of more issues. I felt like I was suffocating, not sure if life was worthwhile lived that way. For me "living with" means taking common sense precautions, but not letting fear take over my life.
Base of the pyramid: Exercise, eat well, rest, take my necessary meds, live my adapted life
Next level: Neb 7% saline, do airway clearance, avoid sick people, wear a mask
when prudent
Third level: Keep equipment clean daily, sterilize as recommended, avoid high risks
(hot tubs, close soil contact), take short showers
Top Level: Keep learning & adjusting
Not in my pyramid: I do not sterilize my water, though I do filter my drinking, cooking &
equipment cleaning water.
I'm not concerned about water or ice in restaurants, friends' homes, etc.
If I use my neb for 8 days without sterilizing because I am traveling, I
don't panic.
My adapted life includes traveling, carefully, but a lot. Going to outdoor functions, a lot. Going to select indoor gatherings, quite often masked. Gathering with friends and family when all are healthy. Caring for my grandkids. Pursuing my passions in volunteering, fiber arts and gardening (in mask & gloves.)
If you want to travel, please give yourself permission to create your own "pyramid" or philosophy for living with a chronic condition, not surrendering your life to it.
Sue