What action by the client would indicate that the client understands how to use an inhaler?
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This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by: Content disclaimerContent on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. This information will help you learn how to use and clean your incentive spirometer (in-SEN-tiv spy-rah-MEE-ter). It also answers some common questions about it. Back to topAbout Your Incentive SpirometerAn incentive spirometer is a device that will expand your lungs by helping you breathe more deeply and fully. It measures how much air you can breathe into your lungs. Using an incentive spirometer:
The parts of your incentive spirometer are labeled in Figure 1. Figure 1. Incentive Spirometer It’s very important to use your incentive spirometer after your surgery. It’s also important to do your deep breathing and coughing exercises. This will help loosen and bring up any mucus in your lungs. Keeping your lungs active during your recovery will help prevent lung infections, such as pneumonia (noo-MOH-nyuh). If you have an active respiratory infection, do not use your incentive spirometer around other people. A respiratory infection is an infection in your nose, throat, or lungs, such as pneumonia or COVID-19. This kind of infection can spread from person to person through the air. It can spread to someone near you when you’re using your spirometer to breathe in and out. Back to topHow To Use Your Incentive SpirometerHere is a video that shows how to use your incentive spirometer:
Setting up your incentive spirometerBefore you use your incentive spirometer for the first time, you will need to set it up. First, take the flexible (bendable) tubing out of the bag and stretch it out. Then, connect the tubing to the outlet on the right side of the base (see Figure 1). The mouthpiece is attached to the other end of the tubing. Using your incentive spirometerWhen using your incentive spirometer, make sure to breathe through your mouth. If you breathe through your nose, your spirometer will not work right. You can hold your nose if you have trouble. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded (like you’re going to faint) at any time, stop and rest. Try again at a later time. Follow these steps to use your incentive spirometer. Repeat these steps each hour you’re awake.
Use your incentive spirometer 10 times each hour you’re awake. Cover the mouthpiece of your incentive spirometer when you’re not using it. Back to topHow To Clean Your Incentive SpirometerFollow these steps to clean the flexible tubing with the mouthpiece from your incentive spirometer. Clean it after each use, or as often as needed.
Commonly Asked QuestionsHow often should I use my incentive spirometer?How often you will need to use your incentive spirometer is different for everyone. It depends on the type of surgery you had and your recovery process. Most people are able to use their incentive spirometer at least 10 times each hour they’re awake. Your healthcare provider will tell you how often to use your spirometer. Follow their instructions. How long after my surgery will I need to use my incentive spirometer?The length of time you will need to use your incentive spirometer is different for everyone. It depends on the type of surgery you had and your recovery process. Your healthcare provider will tell you how long you need to use your spirometer for. Follow their instructions. What do the numbers on my incentive spirometer measure?The large column of your incentive spirometer has numbers on it (see Figure 1). These numbers measure the volume of your breath in milliliters (mL) or cubic centimeters (cc). The volume of your breath is how much air you can breathe into your lungs (inhale). For example, if the piston rises to 1500, it means you can inhale 1500 mL or cc of air. The higher the number, the more air you’re able to inhale, and the better your lungs are working. What number I should aim for?The number you should aim for depends on your age, height, and sex. It also depends on the type of surgery you had and your recovery process. Your healthcare provider will look at these things when setting a goal for you. They will tell you what number to aim for. Most people start with a goal of 500 mL or cc. Your healthcare provider may change your goal and have you aim for higher numbers as you heal from surgery. The package your incentive spirometer came in should also have a chart. You can use the chart to set your goal based on your age, height, and sex. What does the coaching indicator on my incentive spirometer measure?The coaching indicator on your incentive spirometer measures the speed of your breath. As the speed of your breath changes, the indicator moves up and down. Use the indicator to guide your breathing. If the indicator rises above the higher arrow, it means you’re breathing in too fast. If the indicator stays below the lower arrow, it means you’re breathing in too slow. Aim to keep the indicator between the 2 arrows (see Figure 1). This means your breath is steady and controlled. Back to topWhen To Call Your Healthcare ProviderCall your healthcare provider if you have any of these when using your incentive spirometer:
How do you properly use an inhaler?Breathe in Slowly
Hold the inhaler with the mouthpiece down. Place your lips around the mouthpiece so that you form a tight seal. As you start to slowly breathe in through your mouth, press down on the inhaler one time. Keep breathing in slowly, as deeply as you can.
How do you assess an inhaler technique?Take a slow deep breath in. As you start to inhale, press the button on the side of the inhaler. When your lungs are full, hold your breath for 10 seconds to keep the medicine in your lungs. Take the inhaler out of your mouth and breathe out slowly.
What actions does the nurse include in teaching a patient to use an inhaler with a spacer?Breathe in Slowly. Put the spacer between your teeth and close your lips tightly around it.. Keep your chin up.. Start breathing in slowly through your mouth.. Spray one puff into the spacer by pressing down on the inhaler.. Keep breathing in slowly. Breathe as deeply as you can.. What are the 7 steps for assisting a person with an asthma inhaler?7 Steps to Using an Inhaler. Prepare the inhaler device.. Prepare or load the dose.. Breathe out, fully and gently, but not into the inhaler.. Place inhaler mouthpiece in the mouth and seal the lips around the mouthpiece.. Breathe in: ... . Remover inhaler from the mouth and hold the breath for up to 10 seconds.. |