Question

The respiratory therapist is instructing a postoperative abdominal surgery patient on how to perform incentive spirometry. The therapist should explain that the purpose of the treatment is to ____________.

1) prevent microatelectasis.
2) promote healing of the incision.
3) prevent areas of lung collapse.
4) prevent and treat pneumonia.

Answer 1

The purpose of incentive spirometry is to prevent lung collapse and pneumonia. It encourages patients to breathe deeply, which is crucial after surgery. Spirometry tests are used to diagnose respiratory diseases and determine treatment effectiveness.

Step-by-step explanation:

The respiratory therapist should explain that the purpose of incentive spirometry, especially after abdominal surgery, is to prevent areas of lung collapse (also known as atelectasis), and to prevent and treat pneumonia. Incentive spirometry is a technique used to encourage patients to breathe deeply and is vital for patients who are immobile or recovering from surgery as it helps keep the lungs clear. Spirometry test results are commonly used to diagnose respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other conditions that affect breathing. Results can show a decrease in the lung's capacity to hold air, implying obstructions or restrictions in the airways. Furthermore, spirometry can determine the effectiveness of respiratory disease treatments by showing improvements or declines in lung function over time.

Increased airway resistance, such as from asthma or COPD, would cause an increase in intrapleural pressure during inhalation as the lungs and chest muscles work harder to maintain airflow. A puncture to the thoracic cavity disrupts the negative pressure system required for lung expansion, thus impairing the ability to inhale as air enters the pleural space, leading to a pneumothorax or collapsed lung.