Using an Incentive Spirometer
Soon after your surgery, a nurse or therapist will teach you exercises. These keep your lungs clear, strengthen your breathing muscles, and help prevent complications.
The exercises include doing a deep-breathing exercise using a device called an incentive spirometer.
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| Deep breathing expands the lungs, aids circulation, and helps prevent pneumonia. |
Four Steps to Clear Lungs
1. Exhale normally.
2. Place your lips tightly around the mouthpiece.
3. Inhale as much air as you can.
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Inhale slowly and deeply.
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Hold the breath long enough to keep the balls or disk raised for a least 3 seconds.
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If you’re inhaling too quickly, your device may make a tone. If you hear this tone, inhale more slowly.
4. Repeat the exercise regularly.
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Perform this exercise every hour while you're awake, or as your doctor instructs.
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You will also be taught coughing exercises and be asked to perform them regularly on your own.
Date Last Reviewed:
1/15/2007
Date Last Modified:
9/28/2007