If the mixture has coated the sides and isn't being nebulized, gently shake the nebulizer occasionally during the treatment. An average treatment takes 10 to 15 minutes. The treatment is over when all the medication is gone and the nebulizer makes a constant sputtering noise. Some children cough up mucus after breathing treatments. Observe the mucus color and thickness.
Normal secretions are usually thin and white or clear.
Thick and sticky mucus that is yellow or green may indicate infection. Call your doctor to report a change. If your child needs more treatments than prescribed by your doctor, or if the treatments do not improve the symptoms, call your doctor. After each treatment, rinse the nebulizer, mouthpiece or mask, and T-piece under hot running water. Shake off excess water, place the pieces face down, and let them air dry.