Steam inhalation
The method of deep breathing warm and moist air (vapour) into the lungs for the local effect on the air passages or for a systemic effect.
How to use steam inhalation: Purpose
1. To relieve the congestion of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract and paranasal sinuses, as it symptomatically relieves acute and chronic sinusitis.
2. To soften the thick tenacious mucus, this helps in the expulsion of the mucus from the respiratory tract.
3. To provide moist heat and prevent dryness of the mucous membrane postoperatively.
4. To aid in the absorption of oxygen
5. To relieve spastic congestion of the bronchi and trachea
6. To provide antiseptic action on the respiratory tract (E.g.: Tincture benzoin)
Equipment required
Kettle with water
A clean tray containing
Towel
Nelson’s inhaler with the patient label and a bowl
Gauze piece
Cotton ball
Life Trak
From the patient bedside
Cardiac table
Sputum cup
Tissue papers
Pillows
Face towel
How to use steam inhalation: Procedure
Check the physician’s order and nursing care plan
Explain the procedure to the patient and ensure the patient:
Emptied his bladder and bowel
Had his/her meal one hour before the procedure
Warm the inhaler by pouring a little amount of hot water and empty it out after 1 minute.
Pour the boiled water into Nelson’s inhaler below the spout level. The water level should be just below the spout.
Place the mouthpiece, attach the life track, and close the inhaler tightly. The mouthpiece should be in the opposite direction of the spout.
Cover the life track with a gauze piece and plug the spout with a cotton ball.
Place the towel around the inhaler and place it in the bowl.
Take it to the patient without losing time.
Switch off the fan or reduce the AC and perform hand hygiene.
Position the patient in high fowler’s position.
Place the apparatus conveniently in front of the patient with spout opposite to the patient.
Continue the procedure for 15 to 20meter as long as the patient could feel the vapour. Observe the patient throughout the procedure.
Remove the inhaler away from the patient and help him/her in wiping off the perspirations from the face.
Give chest physiotherapy and encourage the patient to bring out sputum by coughing.
Position the patient comfortably and instruct them to remain in bed for a few minutes after the procedure.
Perform hand hygiene
Replace the articles on the patient’s side after emptying the water and cleaning the mouthpiece of Nelson’s inhaler. Dry and replace the articles & perform hand hygiene.
Record the procedure and the effect of the treatment/patient’s response in the nurse’s record and care plan.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS:
During steam inhalation, if the patient stops for a while for coughing or expectorating sputum the spout has to be closed to prevent the escape of steam.
If a physician has given an order for adding any medication along with steam inhalation, it should be added and administered for the patient.
Documentation
Record the time, duration, purpose, medications if added and the patient’s response, including the color of the sputum.
Steam inhalation: PATIENT AND FAMILY EDUCATION:
Educate the patient & family regarding:
The importance of steam inhalation
Preparation of steam inhaler
The right technique to be followed
Frequency and duration
Complications due to mishandling
Ensure the patient verbalizes and demonstrates.
Keywords: Steam inhalation, how to use steam inhaler, Sinusitis, cold, cough