Nasal irrigation

nasal irrigation procedure

1. Nasal irrigation Manisha kumari Igims patna

2. Nasal irrigation  (also called  nasal lavage ,  nasal toilet , or  nasal douche ) is a personal  hygiene  practice in which the  nasal cavity  is washed to flush out  mucus  and debris from the  nose  and  sinuses , in order to enhance  nasal breathing

3. Flushing the nasal cavity can soothe inflamed tissue and remove irritants like allergens; it may help clear mucus. [2] [3] Typical use involves the pouring or pumping of saline water through one nostril and letting it drain from the other.

4. Cleans mucus from the nose, so medication can be more effective Cleans allergens and irritants from the nose, reducing their impact Cleans bacteria and viruses from the nose, decreasing infections Decreases swelling in the nose and increases airflow  

5. Position for the Nasal Wash Adults and older children — Lean far over the sink with your head down. Younger children — If possible, have your child lean as far over the sink as possible. A small child may have trouble cooperating with a nasal wash, and may need to be held and assisted. Ask your health care provider about ways to hold a small child when doing a nasal wash.

6. Solutions [ edit ] The water should not be tap water, which may contain small amounts of bacteria that are safe to drink but may be dangerous in the nose. The water should be sterile or filtered for micro-organisms; if tap water is used it should be boiled and cooled. [4]   Saline solution  is also sometimes used. [2] The U.S.  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  has a fact sheet recommending one of four methods to make the water safe [7] : Boil: Use water that has been previously boiled for 1 minute and left to cool. At elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for 3 minutes. Filter: Use a filter designed to remove some water-loving germs. The label may read “NSF 53” or “NSF 58.” Filter labels that read “absolute pore size of 1 micron or smaller” are also effective. Buy: Use water with a label specifying that it contains distilled or sterile water. Disinfect: Learn how to disinfect your water to ensure it is safe from Naegleria. Chlorine bleach used at the right level and time will work as a disinfectant against this germ.

7. Bulb Syringe Technique (alternate technique) —  Use a large all-rubber ear syringe. An ear bulb syringe can be purchased at most pharmacies. Fill the syringe completely with the saltwater. Insert the syringe tip just inside your nostril, and pinch your nostril around the tip of the bulb syringe to keep the solution from running out your nose. Gently squeeze the bulb to swish the solution around in your nose; then blow your nose lightly. Repeat the procedure with the other nostril. Waterpik ®  Technique (alternate technique) —  Use a Waterpik with a Sinus Irrigator Tip. Pour the saltwater into the water reservoir and set the Waterpik at the lowest possible pressure. Insert the tip just inside your nostril, and allow the fluid to run out of your mouth or other nostril. Blow your nose lightly. Repeat the procedure with the other nostril. Hand Technique (alternate technique) —  Use your hands for this technique. Pour some saltwater into your palm. Sniff the liquid up your nose, one nostril at a time. Blow your nose lightly. This technique may not be as effective, but may be used in some situations.

8. PURPOSE To remove discharge and prevent crusting in the nose. EQUIPMENT To be placed at the bedside: Ear bulb syringe (2 oz) or gavage feeding bag Saline solution or other irrigants as ordered Clean basin

9. PROCEDURE Wash hands thoroughly. Explain procedure to patient. Irrigating solution may be used at room temperature or warmed to 105 to 110°F (40.6 to 43.3°C). Temperature of the solution may be checked by pouring over the inner aspect of the wrist without contaminating the remaining solution. Pour solution into basin if using ear bulb syringe. If using the gavage bag, fill the bag with the irrigating solution. Position the patient sitting or standing over a sink or large basin. Completely fill the bulb syringe or gavage bag with the irrigating solution. Place the tip of the syringe or gavage tubing approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inch into the nostril.

10. Using gentle but even pressure, direct solution into nose. To prevent aspiration, keep the patient's head tilted forward. The solution will drain into the sink or basin. Continue irrigating until the prescribed amount of solution is used. Repeat irrigation in the second nostril as directed. Wash hands thoroughly. Record type of drainage returned. PRECAUTIONS, CONSIDERATIONS, AND OBSERVATIONS Nasal irrigation requires a physician's order. Other solutions may be ordered as an irrigating solution. If the amount is not specified, use 1000 cc of solution. If nasal drops or sprays are ordered, perform irrigations prior to drop or spray instillation. Sterile supplies may be indicated based on patient condition. If home care instructions are needed, supply patient with nasal Irrigation.

11. Cleaning the Equipment To prevent the growth of bacteria, you must thoroughly clean the equipment used for a nasal wash. It is important for each family member to have his/her own bulb syringe or nasal adaptor. Cleaning the Sinus Rinse Bottle After each use, put a small amount of dishwashing detergent in the bottle. Add water (described above). Secure the cap with the tube onto the bottle. Shake the bottle. Rinse the bottle, tubing and cap with water. Shake off any excess water, and allow the pieces to dry on a clean towel. If you feel the system is discolored or contaminated, clean the bottle, cap and tubing with rubbing (70 percent isopropyl) alcohol or white, distilled vinegar (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water). After the use of either solution, rinse the pieces well with water and shake off the excess water. Again, allow the pieces to dry on a clean towel. You may also place the bottle tubing and cap in the microwave for 1.5 – 2 minutes. The Sinus Rinse bottle is not cleaned well using the dishwasher. Replace the Sinus Rinse bottle every 3 months or if it becomes discolored.

12. Adverse effects include nasal irritation, nosebleeds, headache, and drainage after the irrigation is done. It is generally well tolerated. [2] There is a risk of infection 

13. The following symptoms usually occur within 5 days (between 1 to 7 days) of infection: severe and persistent headache sore throat nausea vomiting high fever sleepiness death.