Saline nasal spray is used to moisturize nasal passages and/or remove mucus blockage. Saline nasal sprays can also help loosen mucus in an infant or child who is too young to blow his nose. This non-medicated solution can be used in a few simple steps.
Self-Administration
Blow your nose to remove any loosened mucus.
Remove the cap and shake the bottle. Give the bottle a few practice squeezes until a fine mist comes out.
Lean forward slightly. Breath out slowly while holding the bottle against the nostril. Plug the opposite nostril with the other hand.
Squeeze the bottle and breathe in slowly through your nose. Do not blow your nose right away.
Repeat the steps for the opposite side.
Administering to an Infant
Lie your infant on her back.
Place a few drops of saline in each nostril.
Use a suction bulb to remove the loosened mucus.
Tip
Wash the syringe with soap and warm water after each use. Suck water in and out of the bulb syringe to get all the mucus out. Preservative-free saline sprays might produce less stinging.
Warning
Do not squeeze the bulb syringe while it is in the infant's nostril.
Do not use during a nosebleed.
References
Writer Bio
Sarah Harding has written stacks of research articles dating back to 2000. She has consulted in various settings and taught courses focused on psychology. Her work has been published by ParentDish, Atkins and other clients. Harding holds a Master of Science in psychology from Capella University and is completing several certificates through the Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association.