A cough assist machine provides mechanical assistance to individuals who struggle to clear mucus and secretions from their airways. This non-invasive device helps to simulate a natural cough, a reflex action designed to expel foreign particles and excess fluid from the lungs. The machine’s primary goal is to improve lung hygiene and reduce the risk of respiratory complications by effectively mobilizing and removing these secretions.
How the Machine Works
The cough assist machine operates by rapidly changing the pressure within the patient’s airways, mimicking the mechanics of a natural cough. It first delivers a positive inspiratory pressure, gently pushing air into the lungs and expanding them. This action helps to loosen and mobilize secretions that may be adhering to the bronchial walls.
Following this inspiratory phase, the machine quickly reverses to a strong negative expiratory pressure. This sudden shift creates a high expiratory flow, similar to the force generated during a natural cough. The rapid outward flow of air helps to dislodge and move the loosened mucus toward the upper airway, where it can be coughed out or suctioned.
Before You Begin
Before starting a cough assist treatment, gather all necessary supplies, including the machine, the prescribed mask or mouthpiece, flexible tubing, and any required filters. Ensure the device and its components are clean. Confirm the machine’s power cord is securely plugged into a working electrical outlet and that the filters are correctly installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Position the individual comfortably, either sitting upright in a chair or lying in a semi-reclined position with their head slightly elevated. This posture helps to optimize lung expansion and the effectiveness of the cough assist cycles. Review the specific pressure settings and cycle times prescribed by a healthcare provider, as these settings are tailored to the individual’s condition and needs. Verify that the correct inspiratory and expiratory pressures are programmed into the machine before connecting it to the patient.
Operating the Cough Assist Machine
Begin by securely attaching the mask firmly over the patient’s nose and mouth, ensuring a tight seal to prevent air leakage during the treatment. If using a mouthpiece, instruct the patient to seal their lips tightly around it. Explain each step of the process to the individual, encouraging them to relax and cooperate with the machine’s cycles to maximize effectiveness. This communication helps reduce anxiety and promotes better synchrony with the device.
Once the mask or mouthpiece is in place, initiate the inspiratory phase by activating the machine. The device will deliver a positive pressure, typically ranging from +20 to +60 cmH2O, inflating the patient’s lungs over a period of approximately 1 to 3 seconds. During this time, the patient should take a relaxed, deep breath in, allowing the machine to assist with lung expansion. Observing chest rise confirms proper inflation.
Following the inspiratory phase, the machine will automatically switch to the expiratory phase, applying a negative pressure, usually between -20 to -60 cmH2O, for about 2 to 3 seconds. This rapid reversal of pressure simulates a forceful cough, propelling air and secretions out of the lungs. Encourage the patient to try to cough with the machine during this phase, actively participating in the expulsion of mucus.
A complete cough assist cycle, combining inspiration and expiration, typically lasts between 4 to 6 seconds. Perform approximately 5 to 10 cycles in a row, allowing a brief rest period of 20 to 30 seconds between sets to prevent patient fatigue. Observe the patient closely for any signs of distress, changes in breathing, or the successful clearance of secretions throughout the treatment. The number of sets and total treatment time will vary based on individual tolerance and the volume of secretions needing to be cleared, often ranging from 15 to 30 minutes per session.
After Each Use
Immediately after completing a cough assist session, disconnect the mask or mouthpiece and tubing from the machine. Clean these reusable components to maintain hygiene. Wash the mask, mouthpiece, and tubing with warm, soapy water, using a mild detergent, and rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
Allow all components to air dry completely on a clean surface before storing them. Replace any disposable filters, such as bacterial or viral filters, as recommended by the manufacturer, typically after each use or daily. Store the cough assist machine in a clean, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, ensuring the power cord is neatly coiled to prevent damage.
Troubleshooting and When to Contact a Professional
If the machine indicates a poor seal, adjust the mask or mouthpiece position on the patient’s face to ensure a snug fit. Check that the tubing is not kinked or obstructed, as this can impede airflow and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. If an error message appears on the display, consult the machine’s user manual for specific troubleshooting steps, which often involve checking connections or restarting the device.
Contact a healthcare professional immediately if the patient experiences increased difficulty breathing, persistent coughing that does not produce secretions, or any signs of distress during or after treatment. Seek professional guidance if the machine consistently malfunctions, displays unfamiliar error codes, or fails to deliver the prescribed pressures. A medical professional can assess the patient’s condition and provide further instructions or machine maintenance advice.