How to Use an Incentive Spirometer

In this article, you will learn how to use an incentive spirometer. As a nursing student or nurse, it is very important you know how to properly use an incentive spirometer. In the previous review, I covered an NCLEX review over the incentive spirometer which included a NCLEX style question. So, be sure to check that out once you are done reading this.

What is an incentive spirometer? An incentive spirometer is a device used to help improve lung function and prevent atelectasis  This device encourages the patient to regularly deep breath which helps keep the alveoli sacs open. The alveoli sacs are responsible for gas exchange and if they become damaged, gas exchange will be significantly decreased.

Patients who benefit from an Incentive Spirometer:

• Patients recovering from surgery: these patients tend to be in a lot of pain and less mobile which decreases their ability to deep breath
• Patients with lung disorders like COPD
• Patients with pneumonia

How often will the patient use the device? It is best for the patient to use the incentive spirometer 10 times every 1-2 hours while awake.

Your role as the nurse includes:

• Educating and observing the patient using the device
• Monitoring lung sounds and respiratory status

Wrong Ways to use an Incentive Spirometer?

• Blowing into the device (most devices will not work if this is done)
• Rapidly inhaling and exhaling off of the device
• Inhaling too fast or too slow off of the device and not allowing the piston to completely fall to baseline before repeating
• Not using it often (less than 2 -3 times per day)
• Not using the device in sets of 10

Video Demonstration on How to Use an Incentive Spirometer

Steps on How to Use an Incentive Spirometer

1. Attach the flexible tubing to port
2. Set goal for patient with the yellow marker
3. Have patient sit-up and exhale completely
4. Seal lips around mouthpiece tightly
5. Have patient inhale deeply and slowly…making sure to keep yellow indicator within normal range (not too fast or too slow)…Piston will rise
6. Patient needs to keep inhaling as deep as possible. …until unable any longer and then hold breath for 6 seconds
7. Exhale slowly and allow piston to fall before repeating again

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