Pulmozyme Administration
Before taking or administering Pulmozyme, it is important to receive training from your CF healthcare team. You will need the following items for Pulmozyme administration:
- one ampule of Pulmozyme
- one nebulizer approved for use with Pulmozyme
- tubing and other components that come with the nebulizer
- a mouthpiece (or for children younger than 5 years, a face mask) a compressor compatible with your nebulizer
Follow these steps to administer Pulmozyme:
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Step 1
Always start treatment with a clean nebulizer and tubing. Clean equipment after every use and disinfect once a day.
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Step 2
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing the medication. This helps reduce the risk of infection.
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Step 3
Next, clean the table surface and lay out the nebulizer components.
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Step 4
Place the compressor on the table within reach. Test the compressor by turning it on and putting your finger in front of the “airout” port to feel air flowing. Turn off the compressor.
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Step 5
Remove one ampule of Pulmozyme from its pouch and check the expiration date to make sure it has note expired. Then check the Pulmozyme solution; it should be clear and free of particles. Finally, turn each ampule upside down and squeeze gently prior to use to check for medication leaks. If the Pulmozyme solution is cloudy or discolored, if it has passed its expiration date, or if you detect a leaking ampule, do not use it. Discard it or return it to your pharmacist or your CF healthcare team.
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Step 6
Attach the tubing to the “air out” port on the compressor. Attach the mouthpiece to the appropriate place on the nebulizer.
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Step 7
Hold the tab at the base of the Pulmozyme ampule firmly, taking care not to squeeze the body of the ampule, and twist off the top. Turn the ampule upside down and squeeze gently to empty the contents into the nebulizer. Continue squeezing until the ampule is empty. It is very important to use the full dose of Pulmozyme. Throw the empty ampule away, then snap the cap onto the nebulizer.
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Step 8
Connect the open end of the tubing to the port on the bottom of the nebulizer by pushing up firmly. Turn on the compressor and check to see that mist is coming out of the nebulizer.
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Step 9
Place the mouthpiece between the teeth on top of the tongue. Be sure not to block the airflow with the tongue. (If a face mask is used, gently place it over the child's nose and mouth.) Breathe normally by inhaling and exhaling through the mouth. Do not breathe through the nose. If it is difficult to breathe only through the mouth, use a nose clip.
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Step 10
When the nebulizer begins spitting, gently tap the nebulizer and continue breathing until the nebulizer is empty or stops producing mist. Do not be concerned if condensation collects in the tubing during treatment.
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Step 11
If treatment is interrupted for any reason, such as coughing, turn off the compressor, taking care not to spill any of the drug. To resume treatment, turn on the compressor and continue.
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Step 12
If you detect a leak or feel any moisture coming from the nebulizer during treatment, turn off the compressor and check to be sure the nebulizer cap is sealed correctly before continuing. Remember, it is important that the full dose of Pulmozyme be inhaled.
Commit to your care
Even when you feel well, your disease is still present. That's why it's important to take Pulmozyme every day, whether you have symptoms or not. This may help interrupt the cycle of cystic fibrosis progression. Studies show that when you stop taking Pulmozyme, even within just a few days, the improvements in your lung function may be lost. However you may be able to get these improvements back by starting therapy with Pulmozyme again. Remember, it's also important for you to continue taking Pulmozyme even while taking your other cystic fibrosis medications.
