Aspirating bulb

Content provided by Healthwise

Aspirating bulb

An aspirating bulb is a small rubber bulb that can be used to remove mucus from a baby's nose or mouth when a cold or allergies make it hard for the baby to eat or sleep. It is best to use the aspirating bulb to clean the baby's nose before feedings and before the baby goes to sleep.

To use an aspirating bulb correctly:

Position the baby with his or her head tilted slightly back.
Squeeze the round base of the aspirating bulb with your thumb.
Gently insert the tip of the bulb tightly inside the baby's nose
Release the bulb to remove (suction) mucus from the nose.
Don't suction the nose more than 5 to 6 times a day.

Put a few saline nose drops in each side of the baby's nose before suctioning to help break up the mucus. Suctioning too frequently can make the congestion worse and can also cause the lining of the nose to swell or bleed.

Credits

Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Author	Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Last Updated	March 6, 2006

Last updated:	March 06, 2006
Author:	Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.