Chapter 28: The Child with Respiratory Dysfunction

Why are cool-mist vaporizers rather than steam vaporizers recommended in the home treatment of respiratory infections? a. They are safer. b. They are less expensive. c. Respiratory secretions are dried by steam vaporizers. d. A more comfortable environment is produced. ANS: A Cool-mist vaporizers are safer than steam vaporizers, and little evidence exists to show any advantages to steam. The cost of cool-mist and steam vaporizers is comparable. Steam loosens secretions, not dries them. Both cool-mist vaporizers and steam vaporizers may promote a more comfortable environment, but cool-mist vaporizers have decreased risk for burns and growth of organisms. DIF: Cognitive Level: Understanding REF: p. 1165 TOP: Nursing Process: Implementation MSC: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity