eFlow
eFlow is an electronic nebulizer that makes a breathing treatment go faster. This is due to ":touchspray" technology that vibrates the liquid medicine to produce an aerosol. Inside the eFlow is a stainless steel membrane that has thousands of tiny holes which make a fine mist that is breathed in and out of your lungs. When the treatment is done, there will be no medicine left. eFlow is a nebuliser and an air compressor all in one.
How do I put my eFlow Nebulizer together?
The eFlow nebulizer has several parts. The medication reservoir is attached to the aerosol chamber by a hinge. By gently pulling up on the tab of the reservoir you will release the aerosol chamber. Gently touch the plastic outer ring of the aerosol head and press the two bendy plastic tabs on the sides to insert it into the reservoir. Do not touch the metal part of the aerosol head. Next, press the blue inspiratory valve into the groove on the aerosol chamber with the letters "VMQ" facing the mouthpiece. Snap the nebulizer closed. The medication cap has two parts: a cap and a seal. Remove the seal from the cap using both hands with the ridges facing upwards; press down on the center of the cap. To put the seal back, have the rubber valve facing up like a bowl. Line up the four snap locks with the 4 prongs and push up into the cap.
What Powers my Nebulizer?
eFlow can be powered two ways:
1. The base or control unit contains 4 AA batteries to make it easy to carry with you.
2. It can also be plugged into AC Power. Remove the eFlow from the cradle and snap the cord onto the rear underside of the eFlow. Slide the other end of the cord into the cradle making contact with the metal power plate. Turn the eFlow on.
How do I do my Treatment?
The medication needs to be at room temperature. Place the nebulizer into the control unit as far as it will go. Pour the medication into the reservoir and close the medication cap by lining up the tabs with the slots in the reservoir. Turn the cap clockwise as far as it will go. Press and hold the On/Off button for one second. Once you hear a beep and the light turns green, the eFlow is on. Mist will appear from the mouthpiece. Close your lips around the mouthpiece and take slow deep breaths in through your mouth. Hold the breath briefly on each inhale. Exhale slowly. Hold the eFlow level. If the eFlow is tipped, it will sound two beeps and two green lights will flash. The eFlow will shut off after 30 seconds but can be started again once the eFlow is level and the start button pressed again.
How will I know when my Treatment is done?
When all the medication has been inhaled the "treatment complete alarm" will sound. This is 2 beeps and 2 green lights. The eFlow will shut off by itself. If you must stop the treatment at any point in time, press and hold the on/off button for one second. To begin again, press and hold the on/off button for one second. After each treatment, take it apart for cleaning.
How do I clean eFlow?
The eFlow needs to be cleaned after every treatment with liquid soap. Do not use "white" liquid soap such as ivory dish soap or antibacterial soaps as these may contain additives that are harmful to eFlow. Remove the medication cap, cap seal, and mouthpiece. Release the aerosol chamber by pulling up on the tab of the medication reservoir. Remove the aerosol head without touching the metal part and remove the inspiratory valve. Rinse all the pieces under running warm tap water for 10 seconds. Rinse both sides of the aerosol head for 10 seconds on each side to prevent clogging and make sure it is working. Wash the aerosol head in soapy warm tap water separately to avoid other parts from touching the metal part. Wash the other parts in the same water. The final rinse is with sterile water and air dry on a clean lint free towel.
Put together when fully dry.
How do I disinfect eFlow?
Always clean the eFlow first. Once a week disinfect using a hydrogen peroxide and water solution. Soak in the mixture of one part hydrogen peroxide to two parts water (1 cup hydrogen peroxide to 2 cups water). Make sure the equipment is fully covered and soak for at least 30 minutes. Rinse all the parts well in sterile water. Air dry on a clean towel.
The control unit can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Avoid liquids on the inside of the battery compartment
How to make sterile water
You can make sterile water by boiling tap, bottle, or distilled water for 5 minutes, use this sterile water once and then throw it out.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 02/27/2013
Copyright © 02/27/2013 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6602
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