incentive spirometer

Introduction

Small device used to improve pulmonary function.

Indications

• post-operative
• prolonged bedrest

Contraindications

• no role in routine management of non-surgical patients following extubation from mechanical ventilation

Procedure

• the device contains a plastic tube into which the patient forceably exhales & a set of balls or other plastic items that float in the exhaled air
• the height of the balls depends upon the FEV1 & volume exhaled air

More general terms

• device (medical device)