Saunders Respiratory Practice

What is the primary purpose of a nebulizer in respiratory therapy?

1. To facilitate deep breathing exercises

2. To deliver medication directly to the lungs

3. To monitor patient vitals

4. To improve oxygenation levels

The correct answer is: To deliver medication directly to the lungs

The primary purpose of a nebulizer in respiratory therapy is to deliver medication directly to the lungs. This device converts liquid medication into a fine mist that can be inhaled, allowing for rapid absorption and effectiveness against respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, and other airway obstructive diseases. By delivering medication directly to the site of action— the lungs— nebulizers help in achieving a quicker therapeutic effect compared to oral or injected routes, which may need to pass through other body systems before reaching the lungs. In contrast, while deep breathing exercises can enhance lung function and improve overall respiratory health, they do not involve the delivery of medication, which is the core function of a nebulizer. Monitoring patient vitals is essential in a clinical setting but is not a direct function of nebulization therapy. Similarly, while nebulizers can indirectly contribute to improved oxygenation by alleviating bronchoconstriction through medication, their primary role remains focused on delivering specific medications to treat the underlying respiratory issues.