Abstract: This invention is a device (10) for inspiration of a mist from a nebulizer, having an inlet connector (12, 32) adapted to engage an outlet port of a nebulizer, a hollow mouthpiece element (126 34) for insertion into a patient's mouth; a conduit (14) forming a fluid connection between the inlet connector, and the hollow mouthpiece element. An exhaust valve (26) is provided for removing expiratory gases which are exhaled into the mouthpiece element to the ambient atmosphere via an exhaust/positive expiratory pressure (PEP) valve (26, 50). The PEP valve is positioned on the conduit between the inlet connector, and the mouthpiece element; and a filter housing (44) containing a filter (60) for filtering the exhaled gases passing from the exhaust/PEP valve.

Abstract: This invention is a device (10) for inspiration of a mist from a nebulizer, the device comprising an inlet connector (12, 32) adapted to engage an outlet port of a nebulizer; a hollow mouthpiece element (126, 34) for insertion into a patient's mouth; a conduit (14) forming a fluid connection between the inlet connector, and the hollow mouthpiece element; an exhaust valve (26) for removing expiratory gases which are exhaled into the mouthpiece element to the ambient atmosphere via the exhaust/positive expiratory pressure (PEP) valve (26, 50) positioned on the conduit between the inlet connector, and the mouthpiece element; and a filter housing (44) containing a filter (60) for filtering the exhaled gases passing from the exhaust/PEP valve.

Abstract: This invention is a device (10) for inspiration of a mist from a nebulizer, the device comprising an inlet connector (12, 32) adapted to engage an outlet port of a nebulizer; a hollow mouthpiece element (126, 34) for insertion into a patient's mouth; a conduit (14) forming a fluid connection between the inlet connector, and the hollow mouthpiece element; an exhaust valve (26) for removing expiratory gases which are exhaled into the mouthpiece element to the ambient atmosphere via the exhaust/positive expiratory pressure (PEP) valve (26, 50) positioned on the conduit between the inlet connector, and the mouthpiece element; and a filter housing (44) containing a filter (60) for filtering the exhaled gases passing from the exhaust/PEP valve.

Abstract: A mouth piece exhalation valve for a nebulizer or breathing circuit. The nebulizer has an internal passageway containing an offset causing an inspiration mist flow to bypass the exhaust valve without impingement. The offset includes a deflector which aids in the deflection of the inspiration mist flow away from the exhaust valve. The deflector is also utilized for directing the exhaust flow upon expiration by a patient through the exhaust valve. The exhaust valve design includes a flap or disc having leaves formed by peripheral arcuate cuts to facilitate the opening and the closing of the leafs in accordance with the expiration and inhalation of a patient respectively. The cuts also aid in the re-introduction of any accumulation of fluid on the external surface of the disc and valve back into the inspirational cycle so as to minimize any external buildup of fluid.