Title: Nebs vs. MDI's for acute asthma exacerbations<br/>Author: Rose Chasm<br/><a href='http://umem.org/profiles/faculty/82/'>[Click to email author]</a><hr/><p>
The current COVID-19 pandemic and known aerosolized transmission has triggered many ED process changes, including the discouragement of utilizing nebulizers to administer inhaled bronchodilators such as albuterol for concern of spread. Historically, both patients and providers preferred the use of nebulizers as they are easier to use and the belief was that they were more effective than meterd dose inhalers. However, evidence based data has consistently shown that for both adult and pediatric patients that when MDI's are used <strong>WITH</strong> a spacer:</p>
<ul>
<li>
There is <strong>NO</strong> significant difference in efficacy outcome.</li>
<li>
Nebs are associated with greater increase in tachycardia and tremors.</li>
<li>
Nebs are more costly overall.</li>
<li>
MDI's were associated with shorter ED stays and fewer hospital admissions for pediatric patients.</li>
</ul>
<p>
Albuterol: 2.5 mg nebulizer solution = 3-5 MDI puffs</p>
<p>
Albuterol: 5 mg nebulizer solution = 5-10 MDI puffs</p>
<p>
Ipratropium: 0.25 mg nebulizer solution = 2 MDI puffs</p>
<p>
Ipratropium: 0.5 mg nebulizer solution = 4 MDI puffs</p>
<p>
</p>
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