Which of the following measures can reduce or prevent the incidence of atelectasis in a postoperative client?
A. Chest physiotherapy
B. Mechanical ventilation
C. Reducing oxygen requirements
D. Use of an incentive spirometer.
Correct Answer: D. Use of an incentive spirometer.
Using an incentive spirometer requires the client to take deep breaths and promotes lung expansion. Incentive spirometry is designed to mimic natural sighing or yawning by encouraging the patient to take long, slow, deep breaths. This decreases pleural pressure, promoting increased lung expansion and better gas exchange. When the procedure is repeated on a regular basis, atelectasis may be prevented or reversed.
Option A: Chest physiotherapy helps mobilize secretions but won’t prevent atelectasis. Techniques that help the client breathe deeply after surgery to re-expand collapsed lung tissue are very important. These techniques are best learned before surgery. Positioning the body so that the head is lower than the chest (postural drainage). This allows mucus to drain better from the bottom of the lungs.
Option B: Reducing oxygen requirements doesn’t affect the development of atelectasis. Removal of airway obstructions may be done by suctioning mucus or by bronchoscopy. During bronchoscopy, the doctor gently guides a flexible tube down the throat to clear the airways.
Option C: Placing someone on mechanical ventilation doesn’t improve atelectasis. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) may be helpful in some people who are too weak to cough and have low oxygen levels (hypoxemia) after surgery.
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