An incentive spirometer is a common medical device used to help patients improve lung function following surgical procedures or during illness. It encourages slow, deep breaths for post-operative recovery, helping maintain lung health and reduce complications.
The Impact of Surgery on Lung Health
Undergoing surgery can significantly affect lung health, often due to the effects of general anesthesia, post-operative pain, and reduced mobility. General anesthesia can alter the mechanics of the respiratory system, leading to a decrease in lung volume and potentially affecting the distribution of air within the lungs. It can also depress reflexes, such as coughing, which normally help clear airways.
Following surgery, pain can make taking deep breaths uncomfortable, leading to shallow breathing. Shallow breathing limits full lung expansion and hinders the body’s ability to clear mucus. Immobility and prolonged bed rest also reduce lung expansion and can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs. These factors collectively increase the risk of developing lung complications.
How an Incentive Spirometer Works to Protect Your Lungs
An incentive spirometer helps counteract surgery’s negative effects on lung health by encouraging deep, sustained breaths. The device provides visual feedback, showing how deeply one is breathing. When a person inhales through the mouthpiece, a piston or indicator rises, showing the volume of air inhaled. This visual cue prompts patients to take slow, deep breaths that fully inflate their lungs.
This deep breathing helps open up the tiny air sacs in the lungs, known as alveoli, which can collapse after surgery due to shallow breathing or mucus buildup. This collapsed tissue, called atelectasis, is a common post-operative complication the spirometer helps prevent. By expanding the lungs, the spirometer also aids in clearing mucus, reducing the risk of lung infections like pneumonia. Consistent use improves lung ventilation, helps clear residual anesthesia, and improves oxygen exchange.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Incentive Spirometer
Begin by sitting upright in a chair or in bed, holding the device at eye level. Exhale normally before placing the mouthpiece into your mouth and sealing your lips tightly around it.
Inhale slowly and deeply through the mouthpiece, aiming to raise the piston or indicator as high as possible. Many devices have a target marker; keep the indicator within the recommended range. Once you have inhaled as deeply as you can, hold your breath for at least three to five seconds. Then, slowly exhale and allow the piston to fall. Repeat this sequence approximately 10 times every hour while awake, or as instructed by your healthcare provider.
Maximizing Recovery and Recognizing Important Signs
Consistent use of your incentive spirometer is important for recovery. Keeping the device visible, such as on a bedside table, can serve as a helpful reminder to use it regularly. Using it as recommended strengthens your lungs and aids healing.
As you continue to use the spirometer, you may notice easier breathing and less discomfort when taking deep breaths. Be aware of any signs that may suggest a lung complication. Contact a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, increasing pain with breathing, or difficulty reaching your target lung volume despite consistent effort. These signs warrant immediate medical attention.