Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Test Prep Guide

A nebulizer is a device designed specifically for the purpose of administering aerosolized medication. It works by converting liquid medication into a fine mist that can be easily inhaled into the lungs. This method of delivery is particularly effective for patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as it allows the medication to reach the airways directly, providing rapid relief from symptoms.

The nebulizer functions by using a source of compressed air or ultrasonic waves to aerosolize the medication, which can then be inhaled over a period of time. This makes it suitable for patients who may have difficulty using other inhalation devices and allows for the treatment of larger volumes of medication.

In contrast, inhalers, while also used for aerosol delivery, require coordination and proper technique to use effectively, which may not be feasible for all patients. Oxygen masks are primarily designed to deliver supplemental oxygen rather than aerosolized medications, and ventilators are advanced devices used to support or control breathing in critically ill patients. Therefore, the nebulizer is the most appropriate choice for delivering aerosolized medication.