PE838 Nasal Saline

The nose warms, filters and humidifies air. It provides the first line of defense against infection. Using nasal saline regularly can improve nasal function.

Why is nasal saline Using nasal saline regularly can help children who have allergies, chronic or helpful? recurrent sinusitis, nosebleeds and post-nasal drip. Saline can help to: • Remove crusts, secretions, pollen and allergens • Shrink mucous membranes which improves nasal ventilation and drainage • Move mucous out of the nasal and sinus cavities • Keep the nasal passages moist Nasal saline is inexpensive and has no long-term side effects. You can buy it without a prescription (over the counter). It comes in different forms as a spray, drops, gel or as a rinse. You can use saline as a preventative medicine to keep the nose healthy, just as regular tooth brushing helps to prevent cavities. Use nasal saline and other medicines only if recommend by your health care provider. Check with your healthcare provider first before giving any type of medicine to your child.

Can I use saline Nasal steroid sprays (such as Flonase, Nasacort, and Rhinocort) can cause with other nasal drying of the nose. Nasal saline can help with the drying. It is best to use nasal saline before using a nasal steroid. medicines? Regular use of nasal saline can also reduce the need for decongestants, such as Afrin or Dristan. Do not use decongestant nasal sprays for more than 3 days or they can cause more problems. AYR Nasal Saline Mist or Gel and Little Noses Saline spray or drops may work well if your child is sensitive to other types of nasal saline.

What are antibiotic Your doctor may recommend an antibiotic saline solution to treat infection. saline solutions? Mixing an antibiotic with saline makes a solution that kills bacteria in the nose and sinuses. Use antibiotic saline solution only as directed by your doctor. By using an antibiotic saline solution instead of taking antibiotics by mouth, you can treat infections and avoid side effects that can happen with oral antibiotics, like diarrhea. The antibiotic ointment mupirocin (brand name Bactroban) is often prescribed to make a solution with saline.

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To Learn More Free Interpreter Services • Otolaryngology • In the hospital, ask your nurse. 206-987-2105 • From outside the hospital, call the • Ask your child’s healthcare provider toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter • seattlechildrens.org the name or extension you need.

Nasal Saline

What do I need to  22-gram tube of mupirocin (brand name Bactroban)—prescription make an antibiotic required saline solution?  45 to 60 mL bottle of nasal saline with removable nozzle (Tip: Ocean and Kroger brands have removable nozzles)

To make the solution: 1. Remove the nozzle of the saline bottle. Set aside. 2. Pour out a small amount of saline to make room for the ointment. 3. Squeeze 1/4 of the tube of mupirocin (Bactroban) ointment into the bottle of saline. 4. Use a Q-tip to help push the ointment into the bottle. 5. Replace the nozzle and shake the solution. 6. Store the solution at room temperature for up to 6 months. 7. Label the bottle with your child’s name. Do not use on other family members.

To use the solution: Use the solution 1 to 2 times per day as directed by your healthcare provider, and before using any allergy spray like Fluticasone or Budesonide. Have your child rinse their mouth with water or brush their teeth after using an allergy spray. 1. Shake before each use. 2. The most sensitive part of the nose is the center part (septum). Teach your child to aim nose sprays away from the septum by inserting the nozzle into the nose and pointing it upwards and out, toward the cheekbone and eye. 3. Put 1 or 2 squirts into each nostril.

Seattle Children’s offers interpreter services for Deaf, hard of hearing or non-English speaking patients, family members and legal representatives free of charge. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the 5/20 Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your child’s PE838 needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your child’s healthcare provider.

Patient and Family Education | Otolaryngology 2 of 2