Incentive Spirometer Use
Recommended to assist with lung exercises after certain surgical procedures to minimize post-operative medical complications.
Normally, you take many deep breaths each hour—usually without being aware of it. They are spontaneous and automatic, and occur in the form of sighs and yawns. In certain instances, however, your normal breathing pattern can change. When you are experiencing pain after chest or abdominal surgery, for example, breathing tends to become shallow, which can put you at risk for developing pneumonia.
Studies show that learning how to perform lung exercises prior to surgery makes patients better at them and more compliant with them after surgery. Practice makes perfect!
If incentive spirometer use is indicated for you, it will be provided at your pre-operative visit. You will also be given instructions for use before and after your surgery. Keep your incentive spirometer at home, if you need it in the hospital one will be provided to you. Practice as much as you can before surgery and continue to do so as advised after surgery.
Instructions for Use: 3 Rounds 3 Times a Day:
First Time: (Morning)
Round 1: Slow Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Wait 2 Minutes
Round 2: Slow Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Wait 2 Minutes
Round 3: Slow Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Done
Second Time: (Afternoon)
Round 1: Slow Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Wait 2 Minutes
Round 2: Slow Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Wait 2 Minutes
Round 3: Slow Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Done
Third Time: (Evening)
Round 1: Slow Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds– exhale
Wait 2 Minutes
Round 2: Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Wait 2 Minutes
Round 3: Deep Breathe in – hold 2 seconds – exhale
Done
