How to Use A Bulb Syringe
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.
When is a bulb syringe used?
A bulb syringe is usually used to gently suction mucus out from your baby's nose. It can also be used to remove saline nasal wash from his nose. A bulb syringe is best used when your baby is younger than 6 months old.
How is a bulb syringe used?
- Squeeze the bulb syringe and gently place the tip into one of your baby's nostrils. Do not put the stem of the syringe in your baby's nose.
- Slowly release the bulb so that it draws mucus or fluid out of your baby's nose.
- Once the bulb has expanded, remove it from your baby's nose. Squeeze the contents onto a tissue.
- Repeat if needed. Then follow the same steps for the other nostril.
How do I clean a bulb syringe?
Prevent the growth of bacteria by rinsing your bulb syringe after each use and cleaning it daily.
- Rinse the syringe:
- Fill the bulb syringe with distilled or sterilized water. Sterilized water is tap water that has been boiled for 1 to 3 minutes and cooled.
- Gently shake the syringe.
- Empty the water from the syringe completely.
- Place the bulb syringe with its tip down in a clean glass to drain fully. Do not allow the tip to sit in water.
- Clean the syringe:
- Fill the bulb syringe with rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol).
- Gently shake the syringe.
- Empty the alcohol from the syringe completely.
- Place the bulb syringe with its tip down in a clean glass to drain fully.
Care Agreement
You have the right to help plan your baby's care. Learn about your baby's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your baby's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your baby. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
Further information
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