Question

A nurse is teaching a client who is recovering from gallbladder surgery how to use an incentive spirometer. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

a) "Use the incentive spirometer only when you experience shortness of breath."
b) "Inhale slowly and deeply through the nose."
c) "Exhale forcefully into the spirometer after each breath."
d) "Perform 10 repetitions every hour while awake."

Answer 1

When educating a client on using an incentive spirometer after gallbladder surgery, the nurse should instruct them to perform 10 deep inhalations every hour while awake to prevent pulmonary complications and improve lung function.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse teaching a client who is recovering from gallbladder surgery about using an incentive spirometer should include option (d) "Perform 10 repetitions every hour while awake." An incentive spirometer is a device used to help patients improve the functioning of their lungs and involves inhaling, not exhaling. When using an incentive spirometer, the patient should be instructed to inhale slowly and deeply to maximise lung inflation and promote a cough mechanism, which helps keep the airways clear.

Treatment with an incentive spirometer is aimed at preventing pulmonary complications, such as pneumonia, after surgery. Therefore, it is not used only when shortness of breath is experienced, nor is it used for forced expirations. Instead, consistent usage as directed is crucial for effectiveness. The process also involves watching the marker rise to the desired level to ensure the patient is inhaling effectively and substantially improving their lung volumes and capacities.