Incentive Spirometer
An incentive spirometer is a handheld breathing exercise device used to encourage patients to take slow, deep breaths to expand their lungs fully. It is commonly used after surgery, during prolonged bed rest, or for patients with respiratory conditions to prevent atelectasis (lung collapse) and pneumonia.
Exam Tip
Incentive spirometer prevents atelectasis (lung collapse) and pneumonia. Patient must sit upright. Inhale slowly, hold 3-5 seconds. CNA encourages use but does NOT set the target or teach initial use. Used every 1-2 hours while awake after surgery or during bed rest.
What Is an Incentive Spirometer?
An incentive spirometer is a simple, portable device that measures how deeply a patient can inhale. It provides visual feedback (a rising ball or piston) to motivate patients to breathe deeply. CNAs often encourage and remind patients to use their incentive spirometer as part of routine care.
How It Works
The device has a mouthpiece connected to a chamber with a ball or piston inside. When the patient inhales slowly and deeply through the mouthpiece, the ball rises. The goal is to reach a target volume set by the respiratory therapist or nurse, and to hold the breath for 3-5 seconds to allow full lung expansion.
When It Is Used
| Indication | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Post-surgery | Prevent atelectasis from anesthesia and immobility |
| Prolonged bed rest | Prevent pneumonia and lung collapse |
| Respiratory conditions | COPD, asthma, pneumonia recovery |
| Chest/abdominal surgery | Patients tend to breathe shallowly due to pain |
| Elderly/immobile patients | Prevent complications of immobility |
Steps for Proper Use
- Patient sits upright (Fowler's position, at least 45 degrees)
- Exhale normally
- Place mouthpiece in mouth with tight seal
- Inhale slowly and deeply (raise the ball/piston to the target)
- Hold breath for 3-5 seconds at peak inhalation
- Remove mouthpiece and exhale normally
- Rest and repeat 10-15 times per hour (or as ordered)
CNA Responsibilities
- Remind and encourage the patient to use the spirometer as ordered (typically every 1-2 hours while awake)
- Ensure the device is within reach (on the bedside table)
- Position the patient upright before use
- Report if patient refuses or is unable to use it
- Document use if required by facility policy
- Do NOT adjust the target volume (this is set by the nurse or respiratory therapist)
Exam Alert
CNAs encourage incentive spirometer use but do NOT set the target volume or teach initial use (that is a nurse/RT responsibility). Patient should sit upright, inhale slowly and deeply, and hold for 3-5 seconds. The purpose is to prevent atelectasis (lung collapse) and pneumonia in post-surgical and immobile patients.
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Related Terms
Fowler's Position
Fowler's position is a standard patient positioning in which the head of the bed is elevated to a 45-90 degree angle while the patient sits semi-upright or upright. Variations include low Fowler's (15-30 degrees), semi-Fowler's (30-45 degrees), standard Fowler's (45-60 degrees), and high Fowler's (60-90 degrees).
Vital Signs
Vital signs are the fundamental measurements of basic body functions: temperature, pulse (heart rate), respirations (breathing rate), blood pressure, and pain (often called the "5th vital sign"). They provide critical data about a patient's physiological status and are assessed by all levels of nursing staff.
Ambulation
Ambulation is the act of walking or moving from one place to another, either independently or with assistance. In healthcare, ambulation refers to helping patients walk safely using proper body mechanics, gait belts, and assistive devices such as walkers, canes, or crutches.
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