Which instruction should the nurse give a patient using an incentive spirometer after abdominal surgery?

Correct answer: A. Inhale slowly through the mouthpiece and hold the breath briefly

  • A. Inhale slowly through the mouthpiece and hold the breath briefly
  • B. Exhale forcefully into the mouthpiece and cough immediately
  • C. Breathe rapidly through the mouthpiece until dizzy
  • D. Use the device only when shortness of breath begins

Explanation

The patient should sit upright, seal the lips around the mouthpiece, inhale slowly and deeply, then briefly hold the breath. This helps expand alveoli and prevent atelectasis; rapid breathing and forceful exhalation do not achieve the intended effect.

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About Oxygen Therapy and Airway Care

Airway care includes positioning, suctioning, coughing and deep-breathing exercises, incentive spirometry, oxygen delivery devices and humidification. Questions address indications, flow rates, safety precautions and monitoring for hypoxia or oxygen toxicity, while distinguishing nasal cannula, simple mask, non-rebreather mask and Venturi mask use.

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