From the Research
Incentive spirometry demonstrates evidence of benefit primarily in post-operative patients, particularly those undergoing abdominal, thoracic, or cardiac surgery, as well as in patients with COPD, as it helps prevent pulmonary complications and improve lung function, as shown in a study published in 2021 1. The use of incentive spirometry has been studied in various patient populations, including those undergoing thoracic surgery, with some studies suggesting a reduction in postoperative pulmonary complications in higher-risk patients, such as those with COPD 1. Key benefits of incentive spirometry include:
- Prevention of pulmonary complications in post-operative patients, particularly those undergoing abdominal, thoracic, or cardiac surgery
- Improvement in lung function, as demonstrated by a significant increase in maximal inspiratory volume in a study published in 2021 2
- Potential benefit in patients with COPD, as suggested by a study published in 2021 1
- Assistance in re-expanding collapsed alveoli in patients with atelectasis
- Encouragement of deep breathing, which increases transpulmonary pressure and lung volumes, promotes surfactant production, and improves mucociliary clearance, as noted in a study published in 2007 3. For optimal results, patients should perform 10 deep breaths with the incentive spirometer every hour while awake, holding each breath for 3-5 seconds before exhaling slowly, as recommended in a study published in 2021 2. However, it's essential to note that evidence for incentive spirometry is modest, and it should be used as part of a comprehensive pulmonary hygiene program rather than as a standalone intervention, as suggested by a study published in 2013 4. Additionally, some studies have found that incentive spirometry may not be effective in all patient populations, such as those undergoing thoracic surgery, as shown in a study published in 2000 5. Overall, the use of incentive spirometry should be individualized and based on the specific needs and risk factors of each patient, with consideration of the latest evidence and guidelines, including those published in 2021 1, 2.