An incentive spirometer is a handheld medical device designed to measure and encourage deep, slow breathing. It functions as a form of lung exercise, providing immediate visual feedback on the volume of air inhaled. The device is often recommended following major surgeries, particularly those involving the chest or abdomen, to aid recovery and prevent pulmonary complications. It is a common tool used in hospital and home care settings to maintain lung health.
What an Incentive Spirometer Does
The primary purpose of the incentive spirometer is to help patients take breaths large enough to fully expand the lungs. During recovery from surgery or illness, pain or prolonged bed rest can lead to shallow breathing, causing small air sacs to collapse (atelectasis). This condition increases the risk of developing pneumonia. The device encourages users to duplicate the natural deep-breathing patterns that occur during a yawn.
The mechanism uses a piston or a ball inside a clear, calibrated column that rises in response to inhalation. Users set a specific volume goal on the side of the device to work toward measured improvement in lung capacity. These deep, sustained inhalations help clear excess mucus and fluid from the lungs, promoting better air exchange. The visual feedback provided by the rising piston confirms that the exercise is being performed correctly.
Determining Purchase Eligibility
Most incentive spirometers are classified as Class II medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means they are generally available for purchase without a medical prescription, making it simple for individuals to buy one from various sources. However, obtaining a prescription is highly recommended for medical guidance and financial reasons.
A healthcare provider’s order ensures the device is appropriately sized and that the user receives specific volume goals tailored to their age, height, and medical condition. If seeking coverage, most private insurance plans and Medicare require a physician’s order for the device to be covered as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Without this formal documentation, the purchase will be considered an out-of-pocket expense.
Primary Retail Sources
The most common way to acquire an incentive spirometer is directly from the hospital upon discharge after surgery or serious illness. This is the most convenient method, as the device is provided as part of the care plan, and a respiratory therapist or nurse provides the initial training. If a replacement is needed or the device is recommended for an existing lung condition, several retail avenues are available.
Online Retailers
Online mega-retailers and specialized medical websites offer the greatest selection and the most competitive pricing. Purchasing online provides convenience and the ability to compare different volumetric and flow-oriented models, though shipping requires a waiting period. These purchases are typically paid for entirely out-of-pocket, as they bypass the formal ordering process required for insurance reimbursement.
Pharmacies and DME Suppliers
Local pharmacies, such as major chains, typically stock incentive spirometers in their home health sections, allowing for immediate purchase. While the price may be slightly higher than online, the benefit is instant access and the opportunity to ask the pharmacist questions. For individuals seeking insurance coverage, a dedicated Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier is the appropriate channel. DME suppliers are equipped to process the necessary physician’s order and handle the claims paperwork.
Proper Technique for Use
Correct use of the incentive spirometer maximizes its therapeutic effect on the lungs. Begin by sitting upright, holding the device at eye level to ensure accurate observation of the piston. First, exhale normally, then place the mouthpiece firmly in your mouth, sealing your lips tightly to prevent air leakage.
The next step involves a slow and deep inhalation through the mouthpiece, causing the piston to rise smoothly within the column. The goal is to raise the piston as high as possible without inhaling too quickly, which is often indicated by a separate flow marker. Once the maximum breath is achieved, hold the breath for a minimum of three to five seconds before removing the mouthpiece and exhaling normally. This breath-holding phase helps keep the small air sacs in the lungs fully inflated. Patients are usually instructed to perform ten repetitions every hour while awake to strengthen inspiratory muscles.