Incentive Spirometer Usage and Post-Surgical Care
Purpose and Preparation
The incentive spirometer is used post-surgery to prevent pneumonia, clear secretions, and keep the lungs expanded.
Connect the expanded tubing to the outlet located on the right side of the device base.
Practice usage before surgery using the device provided by the pre-op clinic.
Procedure for Use
Sit upright in a chair or in bed and hold the device at eye level.
Exhale slowly before placing the mouthpiece in the mouth, ensuring a tight seal with the lips.
Inhale slowly and deeply through the mouth only; do not breathe through the nose.
After reaching maximum inhalation, hold the breath for to seconds, then exhale normally.
Allow the piston to return to the bottom of the chamber before resting.
Monitoring and Goals
Piston (Left Side): Aim to raise the piston as high as possible and maintain consistency across repetitions.
Indicator (Right Side): Keep the indicator between the two arrows. If it moves outside this range, the breath is either too fast or too slow.
Frequency: Perform the exercise times per hour while awake. If unable to complete breaths, take a break.
Post-Exercise Care
Perform three deep coughs after each session to clear lung secretions, regardless of whether a cough feels productive.
Use the marker on the device to track progress and set goals.