The nurse is teaching the client to use an incentive spirometer.
What would the nurse include in the teaching plan?
A.
Place the mouthpiece in the mouth and inhale through the mouthpiece.
B.
Set an alarm to ring every hour at night to use the incentive spirometer.
C.
Use the incentive spirometer only when shortness of breath occurs.
D.
Inhale normally and then cough forcefully into the mouthpiece of the device.
When teaching a client to use an incentive spirometer, the goal is to encourage deep breathing and improve lung function, particularly after surgery or during recovery from respiratory issues. Here’s what the nurse should include in the teaching plan:
Correct Action:
A. Place the mouthpiece in the mouth and inhale through the mouthpiece.
Explanation:
- Using the Incentive Spirometer:
- Inhale Through the Mouthpiece: The client should place the mouthpiece in their mouth and inhale slowly and deeply to raise the indicator in the spirometer. This helps in expanding the lungs and improving ventilation.
- Rationale for Other Options:
- B. Set an alarm to ring every hour at night to use the incentive spirometer: While regular use is important, setting an alarm for night use might disrupt sleep and isn’t typically recommended. Regular daytime use is usually sufficient.
- C. Use the incentive spirometer only when shortness of breath occurs: The spirometer should be used proactively to prevent respiratory issues, not just when symptoms are present.
- D. Inhale normally and then cough forcefully into the mouthpiece of the device: The spirometer is used to promote slow, deep inhalation. Coughing forcefully into it is not recommended and can be counterproductive.
Instructing the client to place the mouthpiece in their mouth and inhale deeply helps ensure proper use of the incentive spirometer to achieve the desired therapeutic effects.