Incentive Spirometry
Original EditorAlex Palmer
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Defination and Purpose[edit | edit source]
An incentive spirometer is a medical device used to help patients functionality of the lungs.The purpose of incentive spirometry is to facilitate a sustained slow deep breath. The device gives the individual visual feedback regarding flow and volume and also prevent and reverse atelectasis when used appropriately and regularly.[1]
Guideline on appropriate use[edit | edit source]
- Therapist demonstrates using a separate device and provides information sheet regarding technique, prescription of use and cleaning advice based on manufacturers instructions.
- Patient should be in a relaxed position suitable for deep breathing (e.g. sitting upright in a chair or side lying if extra volume is required in one lung due to ventilation perfusion matching).
- Patient creates a tight seal around the mouthpiece and inhales deeply and slowly. The patient watches the flow meter for visual feedback. If possible the patient sustains the inhalation to create an end-inspiratory hold. Ideally, the inhalation is sustained for 4-5 seconds.
- Patient relaxes seal around the mouthpiece and exhales; normal breathing is resumed with relaxed shoulder girdle.
Further pointers:
- Advise patient to take approximately ten incentive spirometry breaths per waking hour (use clinical reasoning to prescribe using Frequency, Intensity, Time and Type principles).
- Patients with an oxygen requirement can use the device with a nasal cannula or a device, which entrains oxygen.
- Deep breathing offers a similar effect. However, using an incentive device as feedback may create greater inhaled volumes, greater control of flow and more motivation to participate in therapy.
- The device can be used with paediatrics and individuals with learning difficulties.
- The device is not suitable for people with severe dyspnoea.
The video below explains more on the use of the incentive spirometer
Indications[3][edit | edit source]
- Pre-operative screening of patients at risk of postoperative complications to obtain a baseline of their inspiratory flow and volume
- Presence of pulmonary atelectasis or conditions predisposing to atelectasis
- Abdominal or thoracic surgery
- Prolonged bed rest
- Surgery in patients with COPD
- Lack of pain control
- Restrictive lung disease associated with a dysfunctional diaphragm or involving respiratory musculature
- Patients with inspiratory capacity less than 2.5 litres
- Patients with neuromuscular disease or spinal cord injury
Contraindications or Precautions[4][5][edit | edit source]
- Patients who cannot use the device appropriately or require supervision at all times
- Patients who are noncompliant or do not understand or demonstrate proper use of the device
- Very young patients or paediatrics with developmental delay
- Hyperventilation
- Hypoxaemia secondary to interruption of oxygen therapy
- Fatigue
- Pain
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Hough A, Physiotherapy in Respiratory and Cardiac Care: an evidence based approach. 4th Edition. Cengage Learning, 2014. p186-189.
- ↑ My Doctor - Kaiser Permanente. Learn to Use an Incentive Spiromete. Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-O-Zawtb32o [last accessed 2/23/2016]
- ↑ Restrepo RD, Wettstein R, Wittnebel L, Tracy M. Incentive Spirometry: 2011, AARC Clinical Practice Guideline. Respiratory Care 2011; 56:10 p1600-1604.
- ↑ Cardiopulmonary services.Incentive Spirometry http://www.sh.lsuhsc.edu/cps/pandp/7.10.pdf
- ↑ Critical Care Therapy and Respiratory Care Section.Incentive spirometry http://clinicalcenter.nih.gov/ccmd/cctrcs/pdf_docs/Bronchial%20Hygiene/02-Incentive%20Spirometry.pdf