A Simple Introduction of the Incentive Spirometer

An incentive spirometer is a kind of useful medical device which can help patients to improve their lungs' function. If someone has had surgery, this might do harm to their respiratory function, especially the lungs. This device can help them to minimize the chance of fluid build-up in the lungs. Besides, this device can also be used to assist patients to recover from cardiac or other surgery. In the following, I will give an introduction of this device.

• Purpose

Using an incentive spirometer to do deep breathing exercises can help you to gain the oxygen. It may also reduce some disease in your lung.

• Steps

There are several steps you should follow when using this device.

1. Sit or lie upright in a comfortable position. You can sit on the edge of your bed or chair if possible. In this way you can take a breath smoothly.

2. Hold the incentive spirometer upright. This device will show the exact result by using it in this way.

3. Take a normal breath. Close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece and inhale slowly through your mouth. This will raise the piston in the chamber of spirometer. The incentive spirometer may indicate you if you are breathing in too fast.

4. Continue to breathe in, and you should try to raise the piston to the highest position. Read the maximum volume you have achieved. This step may make you cough, but it can help you to open up your lungs.

5. If you feel that you cannot breathe in any more, take the mouthpiece out of your mouth

6. Breathe out slowly before holding your breath for 3-5 seconds. Breathe normally to let the piston return to the bottom of the chamber.

7. Repeat the slow, deep breath in and slow breath out again for 10 times.

8. After you have taken 10 deep breaths, you should try to cough to remove secretions which build up in your lungs.

9. Repeat the steps above every 2 hours or following your doctor's advice.

• Some helpful hints

1. Pain killers are usually needed. Do not be afraid of asking your nurse about it.

2. Have pain medicine, because you may fell painful in you lung when you do the exercises with the spirometer.

3. Use your spirometer frequently if you are recovering at home or other places. It will help you keep your lungs clear.