Warm moist air directed toward the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract will often help to loosen a dry cough or congestion. Moistening the mucous membranes also relieves irritation and congestion.

Equipment:

Important Considerations:

Treatment

1. Assemble necessary equipment
2. Bring water to a boil
3. Be sure the treatment room is warm and free from drafts
4. Fill the kettle with boiling water and add medication if desired
5. Place kettle on hot plate beside bed
6. Cover spout with a paper cone in order to carry the steam directly to patient's mouth or nose 
7. Treatment should last for 30-60 minutes, applies two or three times a day
8. For continuous inhalation, place tea kettle on hot plate without the paper cone and let steam fill the room
9. If patient desires to lie down, place the umbrella at the head of the bed and drape sheet over it to form a tent only over the patient's head. Place the kettle with the paper cone carefully under the tent
10. Once treatment is complete, be sure patient is warm and dry, and encourage bed rest for at least half an hour.