Patient Teaching–Incentive Spirometer
Sergei Pugachov
Georgia Southern University
School of Nursing
Dr. Linda Upchurch
NURS 3163

An incentive spirometer is a device that our patients use to improve the function of their lungs. This main underlying principle is that breathing can be exercised to train the expansion of lungs capacity (Potter, Perry, Stockert, & Hall, 2013). Patients who qualify for this intervention include those who have recently had a surgery, were under anesthesia, or have been placed on bed rest. Our main concern here is that these situations create opportunity for less activity within the lungs, which can put the patient at risk for pneumonia. The goal of incentive spirometer is to keep the lungs active while the patient is recovering. Deep breathing can be practiced at home or while being hospitalized. At home, it can be used to prepare for hospitalization or a surgery (Potter, 2013). In either case, nurses are responsible for providing appropriate education regarding the use and administration of all patient equipment. The incentive spirometer is used while sitting straight up on the edge of a bed or in a chair. For patients who are unable to move or sit up, it will be necessary to raise the head of their bed to an appropriate angle. Prior to starting the exercise, lungs should be emptied by fully exhaling. After exhaling, the patient places the mouthpiece in the mouth. For maximum efficiency, it is best to make sure that the mouth forms a tight seal around the mouth piece. The patient will then inhale deeply. At the top of each breath, the patient holds breath for 3 to 5 seconds before exhaling. Once the patient starts practicing deep breathing, nurses should monitor the patient’s response. Responses to notice include noticing when the patient becomes tired or light headed and informing them to slow down and take their