Background and Identification
A nebulizer is a device used by healthcare professionals to administer drugs to the lungs of a patient by incorporating the drug into a breathable mist. The concept is similar to a common inhaler, in which the drug is applied directly to the lungs. Different designs use different methods in order to turn a drug into an aerosol, including compressed air, ultrasound, or oxygen, and can accomplish this by electrical, mechanical, or pneumatic means.
Nebulizers are commonly used to treat respiratory disorders like asthma, cystic fibrosis, or COPD.
Additional Information
Image courtesy of Marco Verch under Creative Commons License.