The nurse is caring for a client postoperatively following excision of a lung carcinoid tumor. The nurse instructs the client how to use an incentive spirometer to prevent postoperative respiratory complications. Preventing which alteration is a major reason for the use of incentive spirometry?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major reason for using an incentive spirometer postoperatively, especially after thoracic surgery such as excision of a lung carcinoid tumor, is to prevent atelectasis. Atelectasis is the collapse of lung tissue, which can occur after surgery when a patient is not taking deep enough breaths. Incentive spirometry encourages the patient to take deep breaths, thereby reducing the risk of atelectasis.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Postoperatively Following Excision