NEBULIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Nebulization is a medical term that refers to the process of converting a liquid medication into fine mist or aerosol particles that can be easily inhaled into the lungs. It is commonly used as a therapeutic technique for administering medication directly to the respiratory system.
The nebulization process involves using a nebulizer machine, which consists of a compressor that produces compressed air or oxygen and a medication chamber. The liquid medication, usually in the form of a solution or suspension, is placed into the medication chamber. As the compressed air or oxygen flows through the chamber, it converts the liquid medication into a mist or aerosol, which is then inhaled through a face mask or a mouthpiece attached to the nebulizer.
Nebulization is commonly used for delivering bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics, or other respiratory medications. It is especially beneficial for patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, or respiratory infections.
This method of medication administration is preferred in certain situations, such as in infants and young children who may have difficulty using inhalers or in older adults with limited lung function. Nebulization allows the medication to be directly delivered into the airways, ensuring effective absorption and localized treatment.
Overall, nebulization provides a convenient and effective way to deliver medication directly to the lungs, offering relief and treatment for various respiratory conditions.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NEBULIZATION
Etymology of NEBULIZATION
The word "nebulization" is derived from the noun "nebula" combined with the suffix "-ization".
"Nebula" comes from the Latin word "nebula", meaning "mist" or "cloud". In astronomy, a nebula refers to a cloud of gas and dust in outer space. The term was then adopted by medical science to describe a fine spray or mist of liquid medication that can be inhaled into the lungs for therapeutic purposes.
The suffix "-ization" is a combining form used to create nouns denoting a process or act of making or becoming something. In the case of "nebulization", it indicates the process of generating a mist or aerosol for inhalation.
