Rx Note

Introduction In a community pharmacy or hospital setting, you will frequently see patients purchasing or using an incentive spirometer after abdominal/thoracic surgery or during a lung illness (such as pneumonia). Incentive spirometry is performed using devices which provide visual cues to the patients that the desired flow or volume has been achieved. The purpose is to facilitate a sustained maximal inspiration (a slow, deep breath) . There are two main types you will encounter: Volume-oriented -  The patient inhales to raise a single large piston to a specific target volume market. Flow-oriented -  The patient inhales to raise two or three lightweight balls in separate chamber. How to Use Patient technique is critical. The most common patient error is attempting to blow into the device like a balloon, rather than inhaling through it. Patient should be in a relaxed position suitable for deep breathing (e.g. sitting upright in a chair or side lying if extra volume is require...