April 1, 2020

MDH Guidance on Administering Nebulized Medications

On April 1, 2020 by Kari Everson

Nebulized medications are currently not defined or classified as an aerosol generating procedure, according to guidance recently released by MDH. However, since there is a possibility of transmission with nebulizer use, MDH is recommending the following steps to minimize risk to health care providers when administering nebulized medications: 

If the resident can tolerate, switch to metered dose inhalers with a dedicated spacer. You will need to contact the resident’s primary care provider to discuss this alternatives and change any orders if appropriate.

• Health care workers should wear a mask, eye protection, gloves and gown during the procedure if a respirator is unavailable.
• Close the resident’s door when administering nebulized medications.
• During the nebulizer administration, health care workers should remain 6 feet away from the resident.
• Residents do not need to be transferred to a higher level of care solely for the purpose of administering nebulizers.

Read: Administration of Nebulized Medication to Patients with Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19.