Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Nasal Irrigations
Asthma is often accompanied by inflammation of the nasal
passages and sinuses. Mucus draining down the throat can
act as a trigger for wheezing. Nasal irrigations help keep
the nose, sinus passages, and throat clear of mucus that may
trigger asthma. They also may prevent sinus infections.
How nasal irrigations are done depends on the age and
comfort of the child. Follow the instructions appropriate
for your child's age.
Instructions for Infants
The equipment you need:
- bulb syringe
- normal saline solution (see recipe at end of text)
- plastic dropper.
Put 10 to 20 drops (0.6 to 1 ml) of normal saline in each
nostril. Use a bulb syringe to suction out the mucus and
saline. Repeat the procedure if necessary.
It is important to clean the bulb syringe daily. To clean
it, draw hot soapy water into the syringe, shake, and
squeeze. Rinse the bulb syringe thoroughly with clear tap
water. Store the syringe with the tip down to drain
completely.
Instructions for Young Children
If your child is able to blow his or her nose but needs some
coaching and help, use the following method.
The equipment you need:
- nasal spray bottle
- normal saline solution (see recipe at end of text)
- tissues.
Partially fill the nasal spray bottle with normal saline.
Gently squeeze the solution into one nostril. Have your
child sniff and blow his nose. Repeat with the other
nostril.
Instructions for Older Children:
Children that do not need help can try one of the following
methods.
The equipment you need:
- normal saline solution (see recipe at end of text)
- tissues.
Method 1: Bend over a sink, head down. Place some normal
saline into the palm of the hand. Sniff the
solution into one nostril and then blow the nose
gently. Repeat with the other nostril.
Method 2: Fill a large bulb syringe with normal saline.
Lean over a sink with the head down. Insert the
syringe tip just inside one nostril and gently
squeeze the bulb, releasing the solution into the
nose while sniffing. Blow the nose and repeat the
process with the other nostril.
Recipe for Normal Saline Solution
It is very important to use fresh normal saline because
bacteria can grow in saline and bacteria can cause
infections. If you are buying normal saline, buy
individual-use packs only. It is cheaper and often more
convenient to make a fresh supply of normal saline every
day.
To make your own saline solution:
Mix 8 ounces of tap water (1 measuring cup) with 1/4 to 1/2
teaspoon of table salt and a pinch of baking soda.
Keep the saline in a bottle or glass for a maximum of 24
hours. Then throw the solution away, wash the container,
and make a new solution.
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