Neonatal Nebuliser Benefits

Nebuliser treatments can fall into the catagory of "supplemental" treatments. As a result, such therapies are often not utilised, particularly when treating neonates. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of nebuliser treatments when considering their use in neonates.

The administration of nebuliser treatments is achieved by turning a liquid into a mist, which can then be inhaled by the animal and absorbed via the respiratory tract Llera,R (2023). Nebuliser treatments are typically administered using saline or F10 antiseptic solution, which encourages the expulsion of respiratory secretions, as well as promoting a healthy pulmonary environment.

The promotion of a healthy respiratory tract means that nebulisation is a great tool in terms of preventative care. An example of this would be when a neonate has regurgitated their feed. Due to the fact that neonates do not possess a sensitive gag reflex, they are at higher risk of developing an infection within their sinus cavity due to the presence of spoiled milk, or aspirating the feed, which could result in aspiration pneumonia (a lung infection). It may be days before they show obvious symptoms from this, which then requires a visit to the vets in order to start antibiotics for the infection/s.

The introduction of nebuliser treatments once regurgitation has been witnessed, helps to clear the sinuses/airway of milk and reduce bacterial growth before an infection has the chance to take hold. This proactive approach can prevent the occurrence of an infection, and in doing so, we prevent the need for antibiotics. Preventing the use of antibiotics means we can reduce the prevelance of antibiotic resistance and the depletion of gut flora which occurs with antibiotic use.

Being able to administer a substance directly into the lungs adds medicinal benefits to nebuliser treatments, since there are medications specifically intended for nebuliser use. There are drugs such as, Salbutamol, which is a bronchodilator (also known as albuterol sulfate). This relaxes the pulmonary muscles, opening the airway which improves the ability to breathe.

Anti-inflammatory drugs such as steroids, have been used in nebulisers for premature neonates, to faciliate development of their pulmonary system. ABClawcentres (2015)

There are also antibiotics which can be delivered via a nebuliser.

These medications have improved efficacy when delivered via a nebuliser. Such medications are to be prescribed by a Veterinary Surgeon.